Trump’s Iran war starts losing Americans

US voters are growing increasingly frustrated with President Donald Trump due to the impact of the Iran war on living costs as the crucial midterm elections approach. At a recent impromptu press conference, Trump frequently discussed his helipad, ballroom, and granite paving stones, barely mentioning the Iran conflict. Six months after launching what he considered a swift offensive, Trump appears disinterested or possibly in denial about the war, as it hinders his second presidency.

During the 36-minute tour of the White House's South Lawn, Trump used the word "granite" 13 times and the word "Iran" only three times. The war, which has resulted in at least 18 US service members' deaths and over 750 wounded, has become a significant issue for Trump. Thousands more have died in Iran and Lebanon. As US voters express anger over the war's effect on the cost of living and midterm elections loom, even his supportive base questions why Trump initiated another foreign war with no clear exit strategy.

Senior fellow William Galston of the Brookings Institution stated that Trump's public approval ratings have plummeted since his return to office in 2025, reaching a low of 33% according to a Reuters/Ipsos poll. Other surveys also indicate Trump is in negative territory. Trump initially claimed total and complete victory in the war but has since pivoted to economic pressure, just as his reasons for starting the war have shifted from regime change to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

As Iran maintains control of the Strait of Hormuz, Trump has expressed frustration and disinterest in the ongoing negotiations.

Foreign policy expert Garret Martin noted that Trump, known for his short attention span, initially believed he could replicate the rapid success seen in Venezuela. However, he is now facing an uncertain situation with no easy exit. The reckoning for Trump could occur in the upcoming midterm elections, potentially costing Republicans control of the House of Representatives and possibly the Senate, jeopardizing Trump's legislative agenda and leading to a potential third impeachment.

While Trump might care about his legacy in history, it seems unlikely he has completely withdrawn from the war, as he believes that statues and buildings named after him may suffice.