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    Trump Breaks Silence on Cabinet Shakeup After GOP Midterm Rout

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    0
    Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

    President Donald Trump is refusing to clean house following Republicans’ sweeping midterm election losses, dismissing suggestions that his Cabinet should shoulder responsibility for the party’s defeat even as reports of internal finger-pointing intensify.

    Speaking with Fox News host Bret Baier late Tuesday, Trump was asked whether the Democratic takeover of both the House and Senate would prompt him to make changes to his administration.

    “No, I don’t think so. Had nothing to do with my Cabinet,” Trump responded.

    The president characterized the election results as a temporary political setback rather than a reflection of his administration’s performance.

    “It’s just a point in time, Bret. Just a point in time. Just the way it is. There was a mood in the air, I guess,” Trump said.

    The remarks, first reported by The Hill and also covered by Mediaite, came as Democrats celebrated victories in several traditionally Republican states, leaving Trump facing an opposition-controlled Congress for the remainder of his presidency. 

    Pete Hegseth Faces Growing Scrutiny

    Although Trump has publicly ruled out a Cabinet shakeup, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has emerged as a potential target of frustration among some administration insiders.

    According to CBS News reporting cited by The Hill, some Trump aides believe Hegseth could face blame for Republicans’ losses, particularly because of the political fallout from the administration’s war with Iran.

    The Washington Examiner separately reported Wednesday that individuals within Trump’s political orbit were looking for explanations for the election results, with one source questioning Hegseth’s handling of the conflict and its consequences for Republicans.

    The speculation follows weeks of reports describing internal tensions within the administration.

    In October, Semafor reported that some Trump allies believed Hegseth could become a target if the Iran war contributed to significant Republican losses. The White House dismissed that speculation at the time, calling the accounts baseless. 

    The controversy surrounding Hegseth comes as Trump has acknowledged that the Iran conflict and rising gasoline prices contributed to voter dissatisfaction.

    In a separate interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump conceded that the war was one factor in the election results but defended his decision to pursue the military campaign.

    “Iran was a piece of it,” Trump said, according to reporting summarized by The Hill.

    The president has maintained that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains more important than the immediate political consequences.

    For now, however, Trump’s public comments suggest Hegseth’s position is not in immediate jeopardy because of the election results.

    Trump Points to Another Reason for GOP Defeat

    Rather than blaming his Cabinet, Trump has repeatedly argued that Republicans suffered because he was not personally on the ballot.

    In a Truth Social post Tuesday, the president claimed his presence as a candidate would have dramatically changed the outcome.

    “And if I was, we would have won IN A LANDSLIDE!” Trump wrote.

    During his Fox News interview, Trump also pointed to the historical tendency of the president’s party to lose seats during midterm elections.

    He suggested that the political environment had worked against Republican candidates regardless of his administration’s accomplishments.

    Trump also acknowledged that some GOP candidates failed to connect with voters.

    According to The Wall Street Journal, the president argued that voters simply did not like certain Republican candidates, suggesting the party’s losses could not be attributed solely to his administration.

    Despite expressing surprise at the scale of the defeats, Trump congratulated Democrats on their victories and signaled a willingness to negotiate with the incoming congressional majorities. 

    Reports of White House Infighting Intensify

    Trump’s public defense of his Cabinet stands in contrast to reports that some advisers and political operatives have been positioning themselves to avoid responsibility for the election results.

    Weeks before Election Day, CNN reported that administration officials were bracing for possible personnel changes if Republicans suffered major losses.

    The Washington Post similarly reported in October that several senior figures were maneuvering for influence amid uncertainty surrounding White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.

    Some officials reportedly believed Wiles could depart following the elections, while others questioned the effectiveness of the Republican campaign strategy overseen by Trump allies. 

    Trump has previously demonstrated a willingness to replace senior officials during his second term.

    Earlier this year, he removed Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Attorney General Pam Bondi, two of the most prominent departures from his administration.

    The president’s latest comments, however, indicate that he is not currently planning another round of high-profile dismissals in response to Tuesday’s results.

    The Washington Examiner reported that some administration officials were also resisting attempts to single out individual advisers for blame.

    One White House aide characterized the results as a broad electoral wave rather than the failure of any particular official. 

    A New Challenge for Trump’s Administration

    The Democratic takeover of Congress creates a different set of challenges for Trump’s Cabinet, regardless of whether the president decides to replace anyone.

    Beginning in January, Democratic lawmakers will control congressional committees with the authority to investigate federal agencies, summon administration officials and demand records.

    Hegseth and other senior officials could face heightened scrutiny over military spending, immigration enforcement and the administration’s handling of the Iran conflict.

    Democrats will also control the Senate confirmation process for any future Cabinet nominees, potentially complicating Trump’s ability to replace senior officials should he change his mind.

    For now, Trump is making clear that he does not intend to respond to the Republican defeat by firing members of his leadership team.

    But with Democrats preparing to take control of Congress and questions mounting about the party’s political future, the president’s decision to stand by his Cabinet is unlikely to end the debate over who bears responsibility for Tuesday’s losses.

    Democrat’s Stunning Trump-Backed Endorsement Sparks Mass Staff Resignations and Party Revolt

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    1

    Rep. Haley Stevens shocked Democrats by backing Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s Senate race. Now her chief of staff has quit, party leaders are furious, and President Donald Trump is praising her decision.

    A stunning political defection in Michigan has erupted into a full-blown Democratic Party feud, with Rep. Haley Stevens’ chief of staff and multiple aides resigning after the congresswoman endorsed a Republican Senate candidate backed by President Donald Trump.

    Stevens, a Michigan Democrat who narrowly lost her party’s Senate primary to Abdul El-Sayed in August, stunned political observers Sunday when she announced she was supporting Republican Mike Rogers just 48 hours before Election Day.

    The unexpected endorsement triggered immediate backlash from Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Bernie Sanders.

    Rep. Haley Stevens shocked Democrats by backing Republican Mike Rogers in Michigan’s Senate race. Now her chief of staff has quit, party leaders are furious, and President Donald Trump is praising her decision.

    A stunning political defection in Michigan has erupted into a full-blown Democratic Party feud, with Rep. Haley Stevens’ chief of staff and multiple aides resigning after the congresswoman endorsed a Republican Senate candidate backed by President Donald Trump.

    Stevens, a Michigan Democrat who narrowly lost her party’s Senate primary to Abdul El-Sayed in August, stunned political observers Sunday when she announced she was supporting Republican Mike Rogers just 48 hours before Election Day.

    The unexpected endorsement triggered immediate backlash from Democratic leaders, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and Sen. Bernie Sanders.

    But the fallout didn’t stop there.

    Stevens’ longtime chief of staff, Justin German, announced that he and several other members of her congressional team were resigning in protest, creating a staffing crisis just as the congresswoman approaches the end of her term.

    “We are shocked and heartbroken,” German said in a statement.

    The extraordinary developments have turned Michigan’s closely watched Senate race into a bitter public confrontation within the Democratic Party, with Trump himself celebrating Stevens’ decision.

    Stevens’ Top Aide Quits After Eight Years

    German, who served as Stevens’ chief of staff for eight years, announced the resignations Sunday in a statement circulated on social media.

    Speaking on behalf of departing staff members, German declared his support for El-Sayed, the Democratic nominee whom Stevens had just rejected.

    “As of this morning, many members of our team have resigned, including myself,” German said.

    The statement described the staff’s disappointment with Stevens’ decision to endorse Rogers, a former Republican congressman and Trump-backed candidate.

    The resignations underscore how dramatically Stevens’ political relationships have deteriorated since her endorsement.

    The congresswoman had previously pledged to support El-Sayed after losing the Democratic primary and reaffirmed that position only days before switching sides.

    But after a dispute over a planned campaign appearance, Stevens abruptly changed course.

    Her decision has now cost her the support of senior aides who had worked alongside her for years.

    Trump Praises Democrat for Breaking Ranks

    President Trump wasted little time responding to the unexpected endorsement.

    In a Truth Social post Sunday, Trump praised Stevens as a respected Democrat who had demonstrated unusual political courage by backing Rogers.

    “Haley said what few people are willing to say,” Trump wrote.

    The president described her decision as an act of loyalty to Michigan voters rather than to party leadership.

    “It’s a thing called bravery,” Trump added.

    The endorsement provides Rogers with a notable crossover supporter during the final days of his campaign against El-Sayed.

    Rogers, who previously served in Congress and chaired the House Intelligence Committee, is competing for the seat being vacated by retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters.

    After appearing with Stevens at Detroit’s Perfecting Church on Sunday, Rogers told reporters he was honored to have her support.

    The Republican candidate also emphasized that Stevens had not abandoned her Democratic identity.

    The unusual alliance gives Trump and congressional Republicans a new talking point as they campaign in the final hours before Tuesday’s elections.

    Sanders Slams Stevens as Democrats Turn on One Another

    The backlash has extended far beyond Stevens’ congressional office.

    Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who supports El-Sayed, publicly defended the departing staff members and sharply criticized the congresswoman.

    “Rep. Haley Stevens’ staff is right to resign in disgust,” Sanders wrote on X.

    He accused Stevens of putting her “fragile ego” ahead of the Michigan Senate contest and urged Democrats to unite behind El-Sayed.

    Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who had supported Stevens during the primary, also condemned her endorsement.

    “This is a despicable betrayal from Rep. Stevens,” Schumer wrote.

    Michigan Democratic Party Chairman Curtis Hertel went even further, declaring that Stevens would no longer have a place in the state party.

    “Congresswoman Stevens is not a current member of the Michigan Democratic Party, nor will she be in the future,” Hertel wrote.

    The unusually public rebukes illustrate how a last-minute endorsement has reopened divisions between progressive and moderate Democrats at a critical point in the election.

    Republican Congresswoman Offers Stevens a Lifeline

    While Democrats criticized Stevens, at least one Republican lawmaker offered to help keep her congressional office functioning.

    Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-Fla.) said her office would assist Stevens with constituent services and other responsibilities during the remainder of the 119th Congress.

    “My office will happily assist @RepHaleyStevens with anything she needs,” Luna wrote on X.

    Luna praised Stevens for taking a position that crossed party lines, calling it an example of putting country ahead of party.

    The offer came as questions mounted about how Stevens’ office would continue operating following the departure of senior staff.

    Stevens has not announced that she is switching political parties, and she has emphasized that her endorsement of Rogers is limited to this particular election.

    “I’m not turning my back on Democrats. It is this one vote,” Stevens told reporters Sunday.

    Bitter Primary Feud Explodes Before Election Day

    The endorsement followed months of hostility between Stevens and El-Sayed, who defeated her by less than one percentage point in Michigan’s August Democratic Senate primary.

    Their disagreements centered partly on U.S. policy toward Israel and the war in Gaza.

    Stevens, a strong supporter of Israel, repeatedly challenged El-Sayed over his criticism of the Israeli government and his association with progressive political commentator Hasan Piker.

    The conflict intensified last week after Stevens’ fiancé, Jason Turkish, publicly announced that he would vote for Rogers.

    Stevens subsequently demanded that El-Sayed condemn an advertisement produced by an independent political group linking U.S. support for Israel to rising grocery prices.

    El-Sayed said the advertisement was not produced by his campaign and rejected its contents.

    The two Democrats were originally scheduled to attend a church service together Sunday in what party leaders hoped would be a public display of unity.

    Instead, Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) asked Stevens not to attend, explaining that the dispute had become too distracting.

    Hours later, Stevens appeared alongside Rogers at a different Detroit church and announced her endorsement.

    The dramatic reversal reportedly surprised even members of Rogers’ campaign.

    El-Sayed Brushes Off Endorsement as Election Nears

    Despite the turmoil, El-Sayed has attempted to keep attention on his campaign’s economic message.

    Asked about Stevens’ decision Sunday, the Democratic nominee dismissed its importance.

    “At the end of the day I actually don’t think about Haley Stevens,” El-Sayed told reporters.

    He said he was focused instead on the concerns of Michigan voters, particularly the cost of living.

    The contest between El-Sayed and Rogers will determine who succeeds retiring Democratic Sen. Gary Peters.

    Michigan is among the states receiving intense national attention as Republicans and Democrats battle for control of the Senate.

    The last-minute endorsement has also exposed deeper disagreements within the Democratic coalition over Israel, progressive politics and the party’s direction.

    For Trump and Rogers, Stevens’ decision represents an unexpected endorsement from across the aisle.

    For Democrats, it has triggered resignations, public condemnations and a dispute that has overshadowed part of their final campaign push.

    With Election Day arriving Tuesday, Stevens’ decision has transformed a closely watched Senate contest into one of the most unusual political stories of the midterm campaign.

    But the fallout didn’t stop there.

    Stevens’ longtime chief of staff, Justin German, announced that he and several other members of her congressional team were resigning in protest, creating a staffing crisis just as the congresswoman approaches the end of her term.

    “We are shocked and heartbroken,” German said in a statement.

    The extraordinary developments have turned Michigan’s closely watched Senate race into a bitter public confrontation within the Democratic Party, with Trump himself celebrating Stevens’ decision.

    Trump Makes Last-Minute Campaign Pivot as Republicans Fight to Hold Congress

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    0
    Gage Skidmore Flickr

    With Election Day just 48 hours away, President Donald Trump is heading to two traditionally Republican states as the battle for control of Congress enters its final stretch.

    President Donald Trump is making a dramatic final-weekend campaign push, heading to Iowa and Kansas as Republicans scramble to defend key Senate seats just two days before the November midterm elections.

    The president’s Sunday schedule includes rallies in Dubuque, Iowa, and Salina, Kansas, two stops that underscore how competitive the battle for control of Congress has become.

    But there’s an unexpected twist.

    Both campaign stops were previously canceled before being abruptly restored to Trump’s schedule.

    The last-minute changes come as Republicans attempt to preserve their narrow congressional majorities amid voter concerns about the economy, rising costs and the ongoing war with Iran.

    Trump, however, is projecting confidence.

    “I think we’re going to surprise a lot of people,” the president told reporters Saturday while discussing the upcoming elections.

    His remarks set the stage for a final campaign blitz that could have significant consequences for the remainder of his second term. ABC News+1

    Trump’s Unexpected Return to Republican Territory

    The president is scheduled to begin Sunday afternoon in Dubuque, Iowa, where Republicans are defending a Senate seat, the governor’s office and competitive House districts.

    The Iowa Senate contest features Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson, who is seeking to succeed retiring Sen. Joni Ernst.

    Hinson has emphasized her willingness to support Trump’s agenda while also standing up for Iowa’s interests when necessary.

    The state has become an important battleground as economic concerns and agricultural issues take center stage.

    After Iowa, Trump is scheduled to travel to Salina, Kansas, where Republican Sen. Roger Marshall faces a challenge from Democrat Adam Hamilton.

    Kansas has not elected a Democrat to the U.S. Senate in 94 years, making the competitiveness of this year’s race particularly notable.

    The president carried both Iowa and Kansas comfortably in 2024, but the decision to spend the final weekend campaigning there highlights the stakes facing Republicans.

    The trips also mark Trump’s return to in-person campaign rallies after a one-day break Saturday. KPRC

    Trump Predicts a Midterm Surprise

    Despite the difficult political environment, Trump has repeatedly expressed confidence that Republicans can outperform expectations.

    Speaking with reporters Saturday at Mar-a-Lago, the president said he was feeling optimistic about the election.

    “I feel very good. I mean, I feel like we’re doing well,” Trump said.

    He also argued that his campaign appearances were helping Republican candidates.

    “We’re going to Iowa first then Kansas second,” Trump said before predicting that the results could surprise political observers.

    Republicans are hoping the president’s ability to energize his supporters will help candidates in competitive races.

    Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, has emphasized that Trump’s political agenda is central to the election.

    “His agenda, without any question, is on the ballot,” Scott told NBC’s Meet the Press.

    That message reflects the stakes for Republicans as voters prepare to determine which party will control Congress for the next two years. ABC News+1

    More Than 52 Million Americans Have Already Voted

    The final campaign push comes as early voting reaches a significant milestone.

    According to data cited by the Associated Press, more than 52 million Americans had already cast ballots heading into Sunday’s campaign events.

    That means millions of voters have already made their choices before Trump and other political leaders deliver their final appeals.

    Republicans are attempting to protect their majorities in both the House and Senate, while Democrats are targeting competitive districts and states where economic concerns have become prominent campaign issues.

    Trump’s tariffs, the continuing war with Iran and the cost of living have all figured into the campaign debate.

    Republicans have emphasized the administration’s policy priorities and argued that maintaining congressional control would allow Trump to continue implementing his agenda.

    Democrats, meanwhile, have focused on economic dissatisfaction and their opposition to the president’s policies. KPRC+1

    Control of Congress Hangs in the Balance

    The stakes extend far beyond individual Senate contests.

    A Democratic takeover of the House would give the opposition party control of congressional committees, opening the door to investigations of the Trump administration and greater resistance to its legislative agenda.

    Republicans are also fighting to maintain control of the Senate, which plays a central role in confirming presidential nominees and considering legislation.

    House Speaker Mike Johnson has expressed confidence that Republicans can overcome the historical challenges facing the president’s party during midterm elections.

    But Democrats are making an aggressive final push of their own, with prominent party figures campaigning in competitive races across the country.

    The November 3 results will help determine the balance of power in Washington for the final two years of Trump’s presidency. Fox News+1

    Trump’s Final Push Begins

    Trump’s Sunday appearances will offer one of his last opportunities to address voters before Election Day.

    His decision to return to Iowa and Kansas illustrates the importance Republicans are placing on states that have historically been reliable territory for the party.

    For the president, the election represents an opportunity to demonstrate continued support for his administration’s agenda.

    For congressional Republicans, the immediate objective is maintaining control of Washington.

    And with tens of millions of ballots already cast, Trump’s final campaign stops come as the country prepares for a consequential Election Day.

    Trump Roars Back at Democrats Over Threat to Impeach Pete Hegseth

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    0
    Gage Skidmore Flickr

    President Donald Trump is defending his Pentagon chief as Democrats consider a new impeachment fight if they regain control of the House.

    President Donald Trump blasted congressional Democrats Thursday over their growing calls to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing the opposition party of turning impeachment into a political weapon.

    Speaking to reporters, Trump dismissed the latest threats against his Pentagon chief and suggested Democrats were more interested in targeting administration officials than addressing the country’s problems.

    “I think it’s terrible. All they do is they talk about impeaching everybody,” Trump said when asked whether he was concerned about efforts to remove Hegseth.

    The president also warned that Republicans could respond with similar tactics.

    “I mean, honestly, if we wanted to play that game, we could play it just as well,” Trump said.

    His remarks come as Democrats openly discuss using a potential House majority after the November midterms to pursue Hegseth’s removal, setting up another possible showdown between the White House and Capitol Hill.

    Trump Stands Firmly Behind Hegseth

    Despite growing criticism from Democratic lawmakers, Trump offered an emphatic endorsement of his defense secretary.

    The president described Hegseth as a “great warrior” who has done a “great job” leading the Pentagon.

    “I think he’s the best at his job in many, many years, and a lot of people agree with that,” Trump said.

    The defense secretary has become one of the administration’s most controversial figures, facing scrutiny over his leadership decisions, the dismissal of senior military officers and the administration’s handling of military operations overseas.

    But Trump has consistently defended Hegseth, portraying him as a central figure in his effort to overhaul the Pentagon and restore what the administration describes as a stronger, more accountable military.

    The president’s latest comments signal that he has no intention of distancing himself from Hegseth as Democrats intensify their criticism.

    Democrats Eye Impeachment After Midterms

    The impeachment push is already gaining traction on Capitol Hill, including from an unexpected Republican source.

    Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), a frequent critic of the Trump administration, introduced an impeachment resolution against Hegseth last month.

    A vote on Massie’s privileged resolution is expected after lawmakers return to Washington following the November midterm elections.

    Several House Democrats have told The Hill they support Massie’s effort and would consider backing additional impeachment proceedings if their party regains control of the chamber.

    Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-Calif.), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and former Marine Corps reservist, delivered a particularly harsh assessment of Hegseth’s tenure.

    “Secretary Hegseth has been nothing short of a disaster for the Pentagon and for America’s standing in the world,” Carbajal said in a statement Wednesday.

    He cited the controversy surrounding Hegseth’s use of the Signal messaging app, the removal of senior military leaders and the administration’s handling of the war with Iran.

    “If he won’t resign, I will vote in favor of impeachment at the next opportunity,” Carbajal declared.

    The impeachment campaign also highlights divisions within Republican ranks, with Massie challenging a Cabinet official whom Trump continues to defend.

    Jeffries Threatens to Push Hegseth Out

    House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) has also intensified his criticism of Hegseth, although he has stopped short of fully committing Democratic leadership to impeachment proceedings.

    During a recent campaign appearance, Jeffries warned that Democrats would “run Pete Hegseth out of town” if they regained control of the House.

    In a separate interview, Jeffries said Trump should remove Hegseth himself or Democrats would address the matter.

    “Pete Hegseth needs to be pushed aside by the president, or we’re going to have to deal with that situation if he is not,” Jeffries told MS NOW.

    The Democratic leader has also suggested that the party would investigate Hegseth’s conduct before deciding how to proceed.

    Meanwhile, some Democrats are already making impeachment a priority.

    Rep. Melanie Stansbury (D-N.M.) told Semafor that removing Hegseth should be among the party’s leading objectives if Democrats regain power.

    The growing pressure places Hegseth at the center of a potential congressional confrontation just as Trump campaigns to maintain Republican control of Washington.

    Massie Prepares for a Post-Election Showdown

    Massie has made clear that he intends to press ahead regardless of the midterm results.

    The Kentucky Republican told Roll Call on Monday that he plans to force consideration of his impeachment resolution during the week of November 9, provided Hegseth remains in office.

    The proposal includes eight articles of impeachment involving allegations that Hegseth exceeded his authority during the Iran war and other military operations.

    Massie also accuses the defense secretary of violating congressional war powers and improperly using his office against critics.

    The allegations remain disputed.

    Because Massie’s resolution is privileged, it could force the House to address the matter shortly after lawmakers return. However, members could also vote to table the resolution rather than proceed with impeachment.

    Even if the House voted to impeach Hegseth, removing him from office would require a two-thirds vote in the Senate.

    That creates a substantial hurdle for Democrats seeking his removal. Roll Call+1

    Pentagon Pushes Back Against Critics

    The Pentagon has rejected criticism of Hegseth’s leadership, crediting him with restoring military standards, reducing bureaucracy and strengthening the armed forces.

    Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson previously described Hegseth as a “transformative leader” who has improved the department’s performance.

    Wilson said the department remains united behind the secretary’s vision and committed to supporting American service members.

    The administration has also defended its military operations and leadership decisions against allegations of misconduct.

    Trump’s latest remarks reinforce that support, making clear that the president views the impeachment campaign as another political confrontation with Democrats rather than a reason to reconsider Hegseth’s position. ABC News

    A New Impeachment Battle Looms

    With Election Day approaching, the dispute over Hegseth is becoming a test of how aggressively Democrats intend to challenge Trump’s administration if they regain congressional power.

    Democrats argue that Hegseth’s management of military operations and his handling of congressional oversight warrant serious scrutiny.

    Trump and the Pentagon maintain that the secretary has delivered results and deserves to remain in office.

    But with Massie preparing to force a vote and Democratic lawmakers openly discussing additional investigations, the controversy is unlikely to disappear after November 3.

    Trump has made his position clear: He is standing behind Hegseth, even as lawmakers from both parties prepare for a possible impeachment showdown.

    Marjorie Taylor Greene Unleashes Brutal Trump Insult as GOP Faces Midterm Showdown

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    2
    Marjorie Taylor Greene -Gage Skidmore from Surprise, AZ, United States of America, via Wikimedia Commons

    The former MAGA firebrand is taking another swing at President Donald Trump, warning that his influence could spell disaster for Republican candidates just days before voters head to the polls.

    Former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) is escalating her bitter feud with President Donald Trump, delivering a blistering insult that could deepen divisions within the Republican Party just days before the November midterm elections.

    Once among Trump’s most outspoken allies, Greene now claims the president has become a political liability for the very Republicans he is campaigning to elect.

    “Trump has become a curse to Republican candidates and it will be worse in ’28,” Greene wrote on X.

    The extraordinary attack came after Trump suggested during a Georgia campaign rally that his willingness to help the state could depend on his relationship with its elected representatives.

    Greene accused the president of putting personal grievances ahead of the needs of Georgia residents, marking another dramatic escalation in their increasingly hostile relationship.

    Greene Blasts Trump Over Georgia Rally Remarks

    The latest confrontation began after Trump appeared at a Saturday rally in Perry, Georgia, to boost Republican candidates ahead of the November 3 elections.

    During his remarks, Trump emphasized the importance of electing lawmakers who maintain a strong working relationship with the White House.

    The president praised Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.), the Republican Senate nominee challenging Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff, and suggested Collins would have no trouble reaching him when Georgia needed assistance.

    “Collins could call me anytime he wants,” Trump told supporters.

    But Trump quickly shifted gears, mocking Ossoff with a reference to the television character Pee-wee Herman and suggesting he would be less receptive to requests from political opponents.

    “But he needs money for Georgia. I don’t give a damn what he wants. I’m not in,” Trump said while describing how he might respond to a request from someone he disliked.

    Greene seized on those remarks, accusing Trump of threatening to withhold assistance from Georgia over personal political differences.

    “He has no idea how bad he is doing in GA,” Greene wrote.

    She went on to argue that Trump’s comments demonstrated a lack of concern for ordinary Georgians before delivering her stinging assessment of his political influence.

    Her criticism reflects her interpretation of Trump’s remarks. The president did not announce a formal policy to withhold federal funding from Georgia.

    From MAGA Loyalist to Fierce Trump Critic

    Greene’s latest broadside is particularly striking given her history as one of Trump’s most aggressive defenders on Capitol Hill.

    The former Georgia congresswoman built her political reputation championing Trump’s America First agenda, attacking his Democratic opponents and defending him through some of his most contentious political battles.

    But their alliance unraveled in late 2025.

    Trump withdrew his endorsement of Greene in November after the two clashed over several issues, including the administration’s handling of documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

    Greene also accused the president of failing to devote enough attention to the rising cost of living, an issue that has become increasingly important to voters ahead of the midterms.

    Their feud intensified until Greene resigned from Congress in January 2026.

    By April, she was openly questioning whether the president still represented the political movement she had spent years defending.

    “This is not the same man that we supported,” Greene said at the time.

    Trump has hardly remained silent.

    During an October 16 rally in Dalton, Georgia, the president mocked his former ally by calling her “Marjorie Taylor Brown” and referring to her as a “whack job.”

    He also celebrated Republican Clay Fuller’s victory in the race to succeed Greene in Congress, underscoring just how far their once-close political relationship has deteriorated.

    Greene Warns Republicans Could Pay the Price

    Greene’s latest attack comes as Republicans fight to preserve their congressional majorities in a challenging political environment.

    With Election Day approaching, Trump has been traveling across the country to rally supporters and boost Republican candidates in competitive races.

    But Greene argues that the president’s involvement could ultimately hurt the party rather than help it.

    Her warning extends beyond November’s elections, suggesting that Republicans could face even greater difficulties during the 2028 presidential race.

    Greene has repeatedly criticized the administration’s handling of the war with Iran, the Epstein files and economic concerns, arguing that Republicans have strayed from the promises that helped return Trump to the White House.

    On Monday, she issued another warning, predicting that voters would deliver a message to Republicans on November 3.

    “There is a powerful lesson that voters are going to send to Republicans on Nov 3rd, but I’m not confident they will learn the lesson,” Greene wrote.

    Her comments reflect a growing personal dispute with Trump, although they do not necessarily represent the views of the broader Republican electorate.

    Trump Pushes Forward as Election Day Nears

    Despite Greene’s criticism, Trump remains deeply involved in the Republican Party’s final midterm push.

    The president has campaigned for candidates across several battleground states, including Georgia, where Collins is attempting to unseat Ossoff in one of the nation’s closely watched Senate contests.

    Trump has also emphasized his ability to deliver political support and federal attention to states represented by Republican allies.

    For Greene, however, the president’s latest Georgia remarks were another sign that personal loyalty has become too important in his political calculations.

    The former congresswoman’s attack adds a new layer of drama to an already tense election season, with Republicans attempting to maintain party unity as Democrats seek to capitalize on voter dissatisfaction over economic conditions and the administration’s policies.

    Whether Greene’s criticism resonates with Republican voters remains uncertain.

    But one thing is clear: The political alliance that once made Greene one of Trump’s loudest defenders has become one of the Republican Party’s most bitter public feuds.

    Trump’s Senate Pick Sparks A Republican Revolt

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
    -
    2
    The White House, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

    President Donald Trump is going all in for South Carolina’s Republican Senate nominee. The congressman she defeated is sitting this one out—and making sure everyone knows why.

    Rep. Ralph Norman told Fox News Digital on Tuesday that he will not campaign for Sen. Darline Graham, accusing Trump and powerful interests of trying to impose their preferred candidate on voters.

    The public blowup comes one week before Election Day, with Graham facing Democrat Annie Andrews in a race that has become more competitive than Republicans anticipated.

    A Primary Fight That Never Ended

    Graham defeated Norman in the August Republican runoff after receiving Trump’s endorsement. But the nomination battle has left a lasting split.

    In a text message to Fox, Norman accused special interests and the president of spending millions to promote misleading claims about Graham’s qualifications. He argued that South Carolinians should not have to accept a nominee simply because party leaders demand it.

    “Elections have consequences,” Norman told the outlet.

    According to Fox, Graham’s campaign manager approached Norman’s chief of staff about having the congressman campaign alongside her. Norman declined—and said another request would not change his answer.

    There is a distinction between his campaign boycott and his ballot: Fox reported that Norman previously said he would vote for Graham, even though members of his family would not.

    Another Blow From Across the Aisle

    Andrews, a pediatrician, has also picked up support from two former South Carolina governors who once represented opposing parties.

    Republican David Beasley and Democrat Jim Hodges appeared together in an endorsement video released by Andrews’ campaign Monday, WIS reported. Their joint appearance gives Andrews prominent validators outside the usual Democratic campaign lineup.

    Norman’s son, Warren, has separately written that he is leaning toward Andrews, according to Fox’s account of his FITSNews opinion piece.

    Trump Doubles Down

    Republican leaders are pressing ahead with their case for Graham, who was appointed to the Senate following the death of her brother, Lindsey Graham.

    Fox reported that the Senate Leadership Fund, a political action committee aligned with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, pledged $5 million in advertising for the South Carolina contest.

    Trump has also campaigned for Graham, while the Republican National Committee argues that defeating Andrews will unite the party.

    But the race has tightened enough for the Cook Political Report to move it from “Likely Republican” to “Lean Republican,” according to Fox. That leaves Graham favored, with less breathing room.

    Trump helped her win the nomination. With the general election approaching, Norman is making clear that delivering the seat will be someone else’s job.

    Pete Hegseth Reportedly Eyeing Pivot To Senate Seat

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
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    1
    By Gage Skidmore from Peoria, AZ, United States of America - Pete Hegseth, CC BY-SA 2.0

    War Secretary Pete Hegseth may have his eye on a different Washington address — and the opening could depend on a fellow Republican’s next move.

    Hegseth is reportedly seeking an appointment to the U.S. Senate as concerns mount about a possible impeachment effort after the midterm elections. His potential route runs through Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn, whose seat would become available if she wins the governor’s race and leaves Congress.

    In an October 25 report, Puck described Capitol Hill chatter that Hegseth has been pressing for Blackburn to appoint him as her successor. The reporting raises the possibility of a move from President Donald Trump’s Cabinet to the chamber that could otherwise confront an impeachment case against him.

    A Senate opening — with competition

    The potential appointment comes with a significant complication: Hegseth apparently is not the only Republican interested.

    According to Mediaite’s account of Puck’s reporting, Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., also wants the seat.

    Puck journalist Leigh Ann Caldwell reported that Hegseth attended a University of Tennessee football game with Blackburn earlier this month, with Burchett alongside them. Caldwell also reported, citing someone familiar with Burchett’s intentions, that the congressman has been campaigning for Blackburn across the state.

    That puts a Tennessee lawmaker with an established political network in the mix for the same opportunity reportedly attracting Hegseth.

    Caldwell also questioned whether Hegseth’s relatively recent Tennessee residency would carry enough weight.

    His time in the state, she wrote, “might not count as real Tennessee roots.”

    Impeachment pressure builds

    The maneuvering comes as Democrats weigh their next steps against the Pentagon chief.

    Puck reported that momentum is building among House Democrats to pursue impeachment when Congress returns after Election Day. Caldwell also reported that some Republicans hope Trump will dismiss Hegseth before an impeachment effort advances, while some senators envision him stepping down before they must confront a trial. Those possibilities remain reported discussions, rather than announced decisions.

    The political backdrop is becoming more threatening for Republicans.

    CNN chief data analyst Harry Enten said Sunday that the numbers were heading toward “blowout territory,” according to Mediaite. He cited a 69% chance that Democrats would capture at least 230 House seats — a forecast that would put them comfortably above the majority threshold.

    That remains a projection. Voters have yet to determine control of the next Congress.

    Impeachment would also require separate decisions in each chamber. A House majority can approve articles of impeachment, but conviction and removal require support from two-thirds of senators present. Winning a congressional majority would not, by itself, give Democrats enough votes to remove Hegseth.

    The Pentagon has pushed back

    Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell previously denied the Senate speculation to Axios, saying Hegseth remained focused on leading the department.

    For now, the reported Senate route rests on several unresolved decisions: Blackburn must win and vacate her seat, then choose a successor. And on top of it all, Hegseth would also have to leave the Cabinet.

    Former Trump Aide Calls Rumored White House Shake-Up ‘Terrifying’

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
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    1
    White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles delivers remarks during the Memorial Service for Charlie Kirk at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, Sunday, September 21, 2025.(Official White House Photo by Daniel Torok)

    The job isn’t open but the replacement talk is already setting off alarms.

    Former White House deputy press secretary Sarah Matthews says the prospect of Stephen Miller replacing Susie Wiles as President Trump’s chief of staff is “terrifying” — adding a sharp warning to speculation about who could run the West Wing after the midterms.

    Trump has repeatedly rejected reports that Wiles is headed for the exit. But Matthews, who served during his first administration and later became a vocal critic, argued that the president’s public assurances aren’t the whole story.

    “He’s been doing his favorite thing, which is calling around, seeing what people think of different names that he floats if he chooses to replace her,” Matthews told MeidasTouch’s Jack Cocchiarella on Sunday, according to The Hill.

    “Publicly, he said that he’s sticking with Susie, but we know that he’s making these calls, and one of those names is Stephen Miller.”

    “And that is a terrifying prospect,” she added.

    One Name Sets Her Off

    Matthews offered little praise for Wiles, accusing her of being “complicit in the horrors of this administration.” But she drew a distinction between the current chief of staff and Miller, Trump’s deputy chief of staff.

    “Stephen Miller is bats— crazy,” she said.

    Matthews warned that elevating Miller could have consequences during the final two years of Trump’s presidency.

    “The idea of someone like a Stephen Miller in charge is a very scary thing,” she told Cocchiarella.

    Her comments were a political assessment of a possible personnel change, rather than an announcement that one is coming. Matthews described having occasional interactions with Miller during briefing preparations with then-press secretary Kayleigh McEnany, according to The Hill.

    Why the Exit Rumors Won’t Quit

    The speculation gained momentum after Politico reported Oct. 15 that Trump had been asking friends and political allies about Wiles and discussing potential successors.

    According to Mediaite’s account of the Politico reporting, four people with direct knowledge described those conversations. Names reportedly floated included Miller, New York Yankees president Randy Levine, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Bill Pulte and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Trump disputed the report.

    Another former Trump chief of staff, Mick Mulvaney, predicted a departure could come after the midterms — while offering a different explanation from Matthews.

    “If she leaves, and I think she probably will, it’s not necessarily because she’s fallen out of favor with Trump,” Mulvaney told NewsNation’s The Hill Sunday.

    “It’s just a natural sort of time to make that change.”

    Mulvaney’s forecast suggested a possible voluntary transition, rather than a firing. It did not establish that Wiles has decided to leave. AOL

    Trump Says ‘Zero Chance’

    Trump’s public position has been emphatic.

    In a statement quoted by The Hill, he branded Politico’s reporting “TOTAL FAKE NEWS” and said Wiles had his “COMPLETE confidence.”

    He reinforced that message in an Oct. 16 conversation with CNN’s Kristen Holmes, saying there was “zero chance” he was considering replacing her.

    “She’s been incredible,” Trump said, according to CNN’s report. He also said Wiles would remain at the White House for a long time.

    Semafor reported that nearly a dozen people close to Trump questioned reports of tension. One adviser suggested people seeking Wiles’s position were helping fuel the speculation. The outlet also reported that Wiles had indicated she intended to stay until Trump leaves office.

    A New Fight Over the Reporting

    The controversy has since expanded into a confrontation between the White House and Politico.

    White House counsel Will Scharf demanded corrections or retractions of three Wiles-related stories, according to Just the News. The administration accused the outlet of publishing false accounts of internal conflict.

    Politico subsequently corrected a separate story about former press secretary Katie Zacharia’s Fox News interview. The correction said follow-up reporting found Wiles did not directly arrange the interview, Political Wire reported. That correction concerned the interview’s booking, rather than announcing a resolution of the replacement dispute.

    For now, Wiles remains chief of staff, Trump says she has his confidence, and no successor has been announced. Matthews’s warning concerns what might happen next — with the midterms approaching and competing accounts of Wiles’s future still circulating.

    Also draft a version more suited for White House Watch

    Trump Backs Wiles as Chief of Staff Speculation Draws Warning From Former Aide

    President Donald Trump is standing behind White House chief of staff Susie Wiles as reports about her future — and potential successors — draw competing assessments from former administration officials.

    Sarah Matthews, a former deputy White House press secretary during Trump’s first term, said Sunday that the possibility of deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller taking over would be “terrifying.”

    Her remarks came during an interview with MeidasTouch’s Jack Cocchiarella, according to The Hill, amid speculation that Wiles could depart after the November midterm elections. Trump has repeatedly denied that he is considering replacing her.

    Matthews Questions Public Assurances

    Matthews argued that Trump’s public support for Wiles could coexist with private discussions about other candidates.

    “He’s been doing his favorite thing, which is calling around, seeing what people think of different names that he floats if he chooses to replace her,” Matthews said, according to The Hill.

    “Publicly, he said that he’s sticking with Susie, but we know that he’s making these calls, and one of those names is Stephen Miller.”

    Matthews, who has become a vocal Trump critic, described that possibility as “a terrifying prospect.” She said she occasionally interacted with Miller during briefing preparations with then-press secretary Kayleigh McEnany.

    Her comments expressed opposition to a potential Miller appointment. They did not establish that Trump has decided to make a change.

    Reports Put Spotlight on Post-Midterm Staffing

    Politico reported Oct. 15 that Trump had been consulting friends and political allies about Wiles and discussing possible replacements.

    According to Mediaite’s account of the reporting, the names floated included Miller, New York Yankees president Randy Levine, special envoy Steve Witkoff, Bill Pulte and former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. Trump disputed the report.

    Former acting chief of staff Mick Mulvaney offered a different interpretation of a possible departure: Wiles could choose to leave after the elections without losing the president’s confidence.

    Speaking on NewsNation’s The Hill Sunday, Mulvaney predicted she would probably depart and described the post-election period as a natural opportunity for a staffing transition, according to The Hill’s report carried by AOL. His assessment was a prediction, rather than a confirmed departure plan.

    Trump and Advisers Push Back

    Trump has publicly rejected the suggestion that Wiles’s position is in jeopardy.

    In a statement quoted by The Hill, he called the Politico reporting “TOTAL FAKE NEWS” and said his chief of staff had his “COMPLETE confidence.”

    Trump subsequently told CNN’s Kristen Holmes on Oct. 16 that there was “zero chance” he was considering replacing Wiles. He praised her performance and said she would remain at the White House for a long time, according to CNN’s report.

    Semafor also reported that nearly a dozen people close to Trump questioned accounts of tension. The outlet said Wiles had indicated she intended to remain in her position until the end of his presidency.

    White House Challenges Coverage

    The administration has also formally challenged Politico’s reporting. White House counsel Will Scharf demanded corrections or retractions of three Wiles-related stories, according to Just the News.

    Politico subsequently corrected a separate report concerning former press secretary Katie Zacharia’s interview with Sean Hannity. Its correction said follow-up reporting found Wiles did not directly arrange that interview, Political Wire reported.

    Vance Tells GOP To ‘Stop Whining’ As Ramaswamy Ad Sparks Ohio Firestorm

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
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    0

    Vice President JD Vance delivered a blunt message Wednesday to Republicans recoiling from Vivek Ramaswamy’s controversial campaign ad: Stop fighting over the commercial and start fighting to win Ohio.

    The intervention came as Ramaswamy faced bipartisan backlash over an advertisement featuring Democratic opponent Amy Acton’s estranged mother—and as prediction-market traders sharply marked down his chances of becoming governor.

    Asked by a BBC reporter whether the ad was appropriate, Vance declined to make that judgment his priority.

    “Well, I’ll be honest with you, whether the ad was appropriate or not is not really my concern,” Vance said, according to Mediaite’s account of the exchange.

    Instead, he argued, Republicans should focus on who will govern Ohio and represent the state in Washington.

    “But I have to admit that I’m a little bit disgusted when I see Republicans across the country who are whining more about that advertisement than they are about what the congressional Democrats and other Democrats want to do to the United States of America,” he said.

    Vivek Ramaswamy speaking with attendees at the 2022 AmericaFest at the Phoenix Convention Center in Phoenix, Arizona.

    An Ad Opens A Republican Rift

    The commercial features Donna Arthur, Acton’s estranged mother, attacking her daughter’s honesty and urging Ohioans not to elect her.

    But the mother-daughter estrangement carries a history central to the backlash.

    Acton has publicly described childhood neglect and sexual abuse by her stepfather. According to Mediaite, she and her younger brother were removed from their mother’s custody, and reporting on court records has supported her account.

    Critics accused Ramaswamy’s campaign of exploiting that history by giving Arthur a platform to attack her daughter.

    Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley was among those condemning the move.

    “He’s a bad guy. It’s a shame he continues to get away with it,” Haley wrote, according to Mediaite.

    Acton’s brother, Phil Stearns, responded in a video released by her campaign, describing his sister as a child who endured abuse while trying to protect him.

    “And she was 11 and 12 years old, and to think that that’s somehow a talking point? Shame on Vivek,” Stearns said.

    A Market Warning—And A Campaign Doubling Down

    The controversy has coincided with another troubling development for Ramaswamy.

    In its Wednesday report, Mediaite cited Polymarket prices implying roughly a 22% chance of a Ramaswamy victory, compared with 79% for Acton. Ramaswamy had briefly fallen to 21%, the outlet reported.

    Those figures represent a trading-market snapshot, not voter support or a guaranteed election forecast. Mediaite also noted that his market standing had been declining before the ad controversy, making it difficult to isolate the commercial’s effect.

    His campaign nevertheless plans to press ahead. Axios reported that the operation was committing $4 million to promoting the ad.

    Vance, meanwhile, urged Republicans to rally behind Ramaswamy and GOP Sen. Jon Husted, arguing that the stakes justified a tougher political fight.

    “Politics is a tough business,” he said.

    His closing instruction left little room for ambiguity: “Stop whining about an advertisement and go win the race in 13 days.”

    Vance Reveals The Conversation He Hasn’t Had With Trump About 2028

    By
    Madeleine Jackson
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    0
    White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

    JD Vance believes Donald Trump would back him for president. But there’s one problem with treating that endorsement as a done deal: They haven’t discussed it.

    The vice president acknowledged that uncertainty during a Monday interview with journalist Mark Halperin on 2WAY, leaving open the possibility that Trump could let a Republican primary unfold before picking a favorite.

    “I think if I run, the president will endorse me,” Vance said, according to Mediaite’s account of the interview.

    But when Halperin asked whether that endorsement would come immediately, the answer became less certain.

    “I would think so, but I don’t know, man,” Vance replied. “I haven’t talked to him about it.”

    An Endorsement Worth Waiting For

    The admission followed Vance’s argument that Trump’s backing carries extraordinary weight with Republican voters, who trust the president’s judgment after watching him battle the party establishment.

    “Obviously, the voters are gonna decide,” Vance told Halperin. “Donald Trump is only one vote of many, but I think his endorsement is still the most powerful.”

    That makes the timing consequential. Vance said Trump could reasonably decide to watch candidates compete before intervening.

    “Again, I think I would get his endorsement, but I also think there’s something to be said for people actually running their own race,” he said.

    When Halperin suggested Vance might struggle as a presidential candidate, the vice president acknowledged the possibility.

    “I might be terrible at it,” he said.

    Trump Keeps His Options Open

    Asked Tuesday about backing Vance, Trump praised his vice president but confirmed they had not discussed the matter. He said the immediate priority was getting through the midterm elections.

    Trump’s support has helped Vance before. ABC News reported that his endorsement helped propel Vance to victory in Ohio’s 2022 Republican Senate primary.

    For now, Vance says he remains undecided about running in 2028. His expectation of Trump’s support comes with a qualification: The conversation has yet to happen.

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