Republicans watch with alarm as Trump’s approval rating sinks in their own internal polling

Key Points:

• With four weeks until Election Day, many House Republicans privately fear losing their majority and are shifting focus to limiting a potential Democratic wave, as internal polling shows declining approval for President Trump even in traditionally Republican areas.
• The GOP is considering reallocating funds away from difficult races, but still holds a significant cash advantage and some leaders, including Speaker Mike Johnson, remain confident in maintaining control, emphasizing aggressive spending and campaign efforts.
• Republicans aim to keep any Democratic majority slim—ideally fewer than 10 seats—to hinder effective governance by potential House Speaker Hakeem Jeffries, reflecting a strategy to make a Democratic majority difficult to manage.
• The GOP is heavily investing in key competitive districts, using super PACs to defend traditionally red seats now at risk, and focusing campaign messaging on taxes, immigration, law enforcement, and transgender policies to appeal to voters.
• Republicans believe their financial advantage and redistricting efforts could help retain the House, especially by capitalizing on Democratic primary conflicts and targeting swing districts, while Democrats respond to GOP attacks on social issues to try to maintain their ground.