Did the midterms kill MAGA?

In early 2015, Donald Trump launched a presidential campaign that altered American politics. Over a decade later, with his approval ratings at an all-time low and the US engaged in a conflict with Iran, Trump urged voters to consider the 2026 midterms as a referendum on his candidacy, stating, "Please pretend I’m on the ballot. Because in a way, I am on the ballot." As expected, Democrats emerged victorious, capturing control of both chambers of Congress, including in Republican strongholds like South Carolina and Kansas.

Republicans now face the challenge of adapting to their midterm losses. Various theories are emerging to explain the defeats, ranging from the ongoing war to corruption, incompetence, tariffs, relations with Russia, perceived cruelty, excessive deportations, and the high cost of living. Conservative commentator Rod Dreher worries about the future of the movement Trump built and whether the Republican Party can move past a president still serving a two-year term.

Dreher believes that MAGA—or the "Make America Great Again" movement—has failed due to Trump's decision-making based on gut instinct rather than rational analysis or expert advice. He also notes that Trump promoted individuals based on loyalty rather than competence, resulting in a chaotic administration marked by numerous crises.

As the Republican Party prepares for the 2028 presidential election, Dreher emphasizes the need for conservatives to reconsider their approach and find a way to build a new conservative movement without Trump's influence.