Musk’s Midterm Push Risks Backlash for Trump Amid Economic Struggles and GOP Fractures
WASHINGTON — As President Donald J. Trump grapples with plummeting economic approval ratings and a fracturing Republican coalition, Elon Musk’s announcement to dive into the 2026 midterm elections on behalf of the G.O.P. has ignited concerns that the billionaire’s polarizing influence could exacerbate the party’s vulnerabilities. Musk, whose relationship with Trump has oscillated between alliance and tension, confirmed his involvement in a post on X, formerly Twitter, signaling a potential infusion of hundreds of millions into Republican campaigns. But analysts warn that Musk’s unpopularity — with approval ratings hovering below 30 percent in recent polls — may prove a liability in swing districts.
The backdrop is a deteriorating economic landscape under Trump. A CNN poll released Dec. 17 shows 56 percent of Americans believe the country is on the “wrong track,” up from 43 percent in January, while only 29 percent say “right track.” Inflation remains the top concern for 44 percent of respondents, far outpacing taxes at 9 percent. Since April, job growth has stagnated at just 110,000 net additions, with unemployment rising to 4.6 percent — the highest since 2021. “The American people aren’t buying the spin from the White House,” said pollster Harry Enten, noting Democrats now lead Republicans by four points on handling rising prices, a reversal from 2022’s 14-point G.O.P. advantage.
Musk’s foray echoes his 2023 effort to sway Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race, where he spent millions only to see the liberal candidate win decisively. “No one is hated more than Elon Musk,” said one Democratic strategist, pointing to Musk’s role in slashing U.S. aid programs, which critics link to job losses in agriculture and humanitarian sectors. Musk’s actions, including dismantling content moderation on X and amplifying conspiracy theories, have alienated moderates and independents key to midterm success.
Trump’s base, however, remains loyal despite the economic headwinds. Governor Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania lambasted Trump during a recent rally: “It’s insulting to the people of Pennsylvania that this guy shows up and lies to the good people of Pennsylvania.” Shapiro highlighted surging grocery, rent, and mortgage costs under Trump, contrasting them with Biden-era stability. With the Affordable Care Act subsidies expiring, health care premiums are projected to double or triple for millions, further fueling discontent.
Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., amplified the critique, accusing Trump and adviser Stephen Miller of using immigration fears to distract from oligarchic exploitation. “They are going after six-year-olds in my district,” she said in a floor speech, decrying deportation policies as a “myth” to justify funneling $170 billion from public programs into “secret police.” Ocasio-Cortez framed the administration’s actions as authoritarian, warning of a “black box” for political dissidents.
Musk’s midterm strategy, potentially involving a billion-dollar war chest, aims to bolster G.O.P. candidates in red districts. Yet, his track record — from Twitter’s advertiser exodus to Tesla’s recalls — makes him a toxic brand. “Elon Musk getting involved in the midterms will be an incredible message for Democrats,” the strategist added, predicting ads tying candidates to “billionaire oligarchy” will resonate in Rust Belt and suburban races.
As midterms approach, Trump’s grip on the G.O.P. weakens. Polls show traditional Republicans edging out MAGA loyalists for the first time since 2016. With economic woes dominating voter concerns, Musk’s intervention risks alienating swing voters weary of elite influence.
The White House dismissed criticisms as “elitist spin,” but internal fractures suggest a party in turmoil. As Ocasio-Cortez urged rejecting the “myth” of division, Democrats see opportunity in framing 2026 as a referendum on Trump’s unfulfilled promises. For Trump, Musk’s help may prove a double-edged sword, amplifying the very divisions threatening his legacy.
