Summary
Republican pollster Sarah Longwell reports early signs of “buyer’s remorse” among Trump voters, citing focus groups where supporters express disappointment with his first month in office.
Many backed him due to economic concerns but feel little has improved. Some criticize his chaotic governance and international reputation, while others worry about Elon Musk’s sweeping policy shifts.
Longwell notes declining poll numbers and warns that Trump’s already-muted post-election honeymoon may be fading faster than expected, potentially signaling broader dissatisfaction within the GOP.
I won’t comment on the value of polls or the wishful thinking, but I will say that she (Sarah Longwell, publisher of the Bulwark) is one of the most clear-eyed and insightful political commentators and actors out there, I think she’s always worth a listen. She also conducts lots of focus groups and listens to voters talk about topics, not just reading polls.
I listen to her focus group podcasts (which are great) and, oh man, it is hard to hear all the dumb things these voters say. Just infuriating.
Yeah it’s mind numbing, and yet really eye opening.