NPR’s Tamara Keith and Amy Walter of the Cook Political Report with Amy Walter joined Geoff Bennett to discuss the latest political news, including President Trump promising payouts to voters if Republicans win in the midterms, the GOP spending campaign money and playing defense in typically Republican districts, and the White House barring a media outlet from the press pool.
President Trump is rallying Republicans in Nebraska, while the White House has barred a media outlet from covering the president's travels.
In the closing stretch, President Trump is promising $5,000 dividends if Republicans hold Congress, $90 checks to Medicare enrollees, and $500 rebates to some Obamacare customers. It was noted that the president has made similar promises in the past that have not materialized.
Tamara Keith observed that many Republican candidates are not discussing these checks, instead focusing on affordability issues that resonate more with voters. Candidates from both parties are acknowledging concerns about rising prices, including gas and groceries.
Amy Walter pointed out that Trump's travel schedule reflects the spending patterns of Republican candidates and committees. Recently, the main Republican super PAC has shifted resources from states like Georgia and North Carolina to focus on traditionally Republican states, such as Kansas and Texas, indicating a deterioration in the political environment for Republicans.
As Trump campaigns, there are ongoing discussions about presidential press coverage. A federal judge restored access for CNN, Politico, and MS NOW after the president banned them, but the White House continues to exclude these outlets from Air Force One. Keith highlighted the challenge news organizations face in balancing coverage of the president with the need to hold him accountable.
As the midterms approach, Walter noted that polls have historically underestimated Trump’s support. She emphasized that while polls have a margin of error, Republicans must ensure disaffected voters turn out, despite their current dissatisfaction with the economy and the president's performance.
Walter concluded that if Republicans perform better than expected in the elections, it may be due to their voters feeling compelled to vote against Democrats rather than in support of their own party.
Geoff Bennett is co-anchor and co-managing editor of PBS NewsHour, providing analysis on political and cultural issues.