Trump’s Economy Goes to the Polls

Subscribe here: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Overcast | Pocket Casts Midterm elections are almost always referendums on the policies of the party in power; President Trump is hoping that Republicans steer into the skid.

Last week, my colleagues reported that the president—dogged by the war in Iran, the trade war with Canada, and an economy that has Americans dipping into their savings for groceries and daily expenses—hopes that Republicans seeking to win reelection or gain seats will use his time in office to sway voters.

But that strategy could play directly into the hands of Democrats hoping to take back both chambers of Congress.

My colleagues the Atlantic staff writers Michael Scherer and Ashley Parker join me this week to discuss Congress, the economy, and the midterm elections.

The following is a transcript of the episode: Ashley Parker: At the end of the day, one thing that President Trump is great at is getting people to sort of remember and understand what it is he ostensibly cares about, right? Whether that’s “Drain the Swamp” or Space Force.

And Democrats need to find a way to signal—need an elevator pitch that voters can say, I’m voting for the Democrats because I know that my interest rate will go down to 3.875 percent . [ Music ] Adam Harris: This is Radio Atlantic .

I’m Adam Harris, and this week, we need to think about the midterms.

The House of Representatives is back on Capitol Hill this week as the nation turns its attention to the general election.

It’s the last opportunity for lawmakers to show they are working for their constituents.

Meanwhile, President Trump is trying to convince congressional Republicans to run on his record.

But amid a war with Iran driving up the price of everyday items and a burgeoning trade war with Canada, Americans are feeling the pinch of the president’s agenda.

And Democrats, on the heel of bitter primary races around the country, are hoping to seize upon the president’s unpopularity, and they’re banking that Americans want something different.

The question is: Are they right? I’m joined by my colleagues Ashley Parker and Michael Scherer to discuss.

Ashley, Michael, welcome to the show.