Poll: Trump’s MAGA voters would stick by a candidate through the most serious of scandals

Politics — 2026-07-30 04:55:00 — www.politico.com

Donald Trump’s Enduring Influence: MAGA Loyalty Redefines Scandal in American Politics

A new POLITICO Poll highlights how President Donald Trump’s political legacy has reshaped the American electorate’s tolerance for scandal, particularly among his MAGA supporters. The survey finds that Trump’s base is the most steadfast of any voter group, with majorities willing to stick by GOP candidates even when faced with serious allegations, including domestic violence and sexual assault.

Trump’s Record of Withstanding Controversy

The poll underscores Trump’s own ability to weather controversy, from the infamous Access Hollywood tape to his four criminal indictments. As reported, three of Trump’s criminal cases were thrown out or dropped after he returned to the White House, while his conviction in the Manhattan hush money case remains under appeal. This resilience has translated into a broader willingness among his supporters to overlook scandals in other MAGA-aligned candidates.

MAGA Voters’ Unmatched Loyalty

According to the poll, two-thirds of self-identified MAGA Trump voters would continue to support a GOP candidate accused of sexual assault—significantly higher than the overall share of Trump 2024 voters. Similarly, 72 percent of MAGA Trump voters would stick with a candidate accused of domestic violence. In contrast, support among voters backing Democratic candidates drops sharply in the face of such allegations.

Trump’s Decisive Role in Scandal-Plagued Races

The influence of Trump is evident in recent high-profile races. In Texas and Arizona, Trump’s backing was a decisive factor in propelling embattled Republican candidates to victory, despite ongoing allegations of misconduct. The poll results suggest that for MAGA voters, loyalty to Trump and his endorsed candidates outweighs concerns about personal scandals.

Changing the Rules of Political Scandal

The findings illustrate a fundamental shift in how scandals are perceived in American politics. Trump’s approach—marked by a willingness to back controversial figures and a personal record of surviving political storms—has set a new standard for partisan loyalty. As one strategist put it, “Scandal doesn’t mean what it did 15 years ago. The rules have changed, and Republican voters know it.”

Conclusion

President Trump’s enduring influence has helped redefine the boundaries of political scandal, fostering a culture of unwavering loyalty among his supporters. As the 2026 midterm cycle unfolds, the poll results make clear that Trump’s approach to controversy has left a lasting mark on the American political landscape, challenging traditional expectations of accountability and reshaping the calculus of partisan support.

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Source: https://www.politico.com/news/2026/07/30/maga-trump-scandal-2026-elections-01013859

Brief pause in Iran war ends with new attacks in Iraq and Egypt

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-29 17:50:00 — www.pbs.org

Trump Threatens Iran with Escalation as Regional Conflict Spreads

President Trump has issued new threats against Iran following reported Iranian attacks on a U.S. base in Jordan, signaling a renewed escalation in the ongoing conflict. In blunt language, Trump vowed retaliation, stating, “So, we had five rockets shot going 8,500 miles an hour, and all five rockets were knocked down to the ground. But they nevertheless took a shot. So it’s our turn.” He went further in a FOX News interview, declaring, “We’re going to beat the effing S. out of them.”

These statements come amid a rapidly widening conflict across the Middle East. The U.S. and Saudi Arabia have launched joint airstrikes in Iraq targeting Iranian-backed militia groups, which the U.S. claims are responsible for over 30 drone attacks in recent days, including strikes on Saudi oil facilities. The violence has also spread to Egypt, where an explosion at an American-owned gas storage tanker was attributed by Trump to an Iranian-backed group. Energy experts warn that if this incident proves to be a drone strike, it could threaten the Suez Canal, a critical global shipping route.

Trump’s aggressive posture has raised concerns among regional allies. Saudi Arabia’s defense minister reportedly met with U.S. officials to warn that further escalation could trigger Iranian attacks on Arab capitals and vital infrastructure. Israeli officials, meanwhile, have expressed unease about the current U.S. approach, describing it as indecisive and unsustainable.

As the conflict intensifies, President Trump’s rhetoric and threats of further military action risk deepening instability and expanding the war’s reach across the region. The situation remains volatile, with significant implications for global energy supplies and regional security.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/brief-pause-in-iran-war-ends-with-new-attacks-in-iraq-and-egypt

Trump says SCOTUS ruling on tariffs and birthright citizenship costing country 'trillions and trillions of dollars'

Administration News — 2026-07-29 21:02:00 — thehill.com

Trump Claims Supreme Court Rulings Cost U.S. “Trillions and Trillions”

President Trump on Wednesday claimed that the Supreme Court’s decisions to strike down his emergency tariffs and his executive order restricting birthright citizenship have cost the United States “trillions and trillions” of dollars. Trump wrote on Truth Social, “Does anybody have any idea how much Money and Prestige the United States Supreme Court has cost our Nation with their negative Rulings….”

Sweeping Claims About Economic Impact

Trump’s assertion that Supreme Court rulings have cost the country “trillions and trillions” of dollars is a striking example of his tendency to make sweeping and unsubstantiated claims. The statement, posted on his social media platform, suggests that the Court’s decisions on his signature policies—emergency tariffs and birthright citizenship—have led to massive economic losses and diminished national prestige.

Lack of Evidence for “Trillions” in Losses

There is no evidence in the excerpt to support Trump’s claim that the Supreme Court’s actions have resulted in losses on the scale of “trillions and trillions” of dollars. The figure is not backed by any cited data or analysis, and the use of such large, round numbers is consistent with Trump’s history of exaggerating the economic impact of policy decisions and legal rulings.

Pattern of Exaggeration

This latest statement fits a broader pattern in which Trump has made exaggerated or false claims about the consequences of judicial decisions and other political developments. By attributing vast, unquantified losses to the Supreme Court, Trump continues to cast himself as a victim of judicial overreach while seeking to rally his supporters against the nation’s highest court.

Conclusion

Trump’s claim that Supreme Court rulings have cost the United States “trillions and trillions” of dollars is not supported by evidence in the excerpt and exemplifies his ongoing use of hyperbole to criticize institutions that rule against his policies. Such statements highlight the importance of scrutinizing political rhetoric and relying on verifiable facts when assessing the impact of major legal decisions.

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Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5998515-trump-supreme-court-tariffs/

Did Zelenskyy get what he needed from his D.C. visit? Former ambassador weighs in : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-29 05:50:00 — www.npr.org

Trump’s Meeting with Zelenskyy Signals Shift in U.S.-Ukraine Relations

A recent interview on NPR highlighted a notable development in U.S.-Ukraine relations, with direct references to President Trump’s evolving position on Ukraine and his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Trump’s Meeting with Zelenskyy: “Positive and Productive”

According to the White House, Trump’s meeting with Zelenskyy was described as “positive and productive.” This aligns with Zelenskyy’s own account on social media, where he stated that he and Trump discussed licenses for Patriot interceptor production and called for diplomacy to be “reinvigorated.” Both descriptions suggest a focus on air defense, a top priority for Ukraine as it faces nightly missile and drone attacks from Russia.

Trump’s Influence on Ukraine Policy

Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor noted that if President Trump applies urgency to the Patriot technology agreement, “he can make that happen more quickly.” Taylor also observed a significant change in Trump’s attitude toward Ukraine, attributing it to Ukraine’s recent successes on the battlefield. Taylor said, “The Ukrainians are actually winning at this point, and I think President Trump recognizes that. He likes to back a winner. Ukraine is a winner, and that…explains the sea change.”

Shifting Republican Support

The interview also discussed the impact of Trump’s position on the broader Republican base. Taylor suggested that many Republicans are now more supportive of Ukraine, taking their lead from Trump. This shift is also reflected in the actions of far-right influencer Laura Loomer, who has recently reversed her stance and now advocates for Ukraine, reportedly influenced by Trump’s own position.

Conclusion

President Trump’s recent engagement with President Zelenskyy and his reported willingness to expedite military support for Ukraine mark a notable shift in his approach to the conflict. As Trump’s stance evolves, it appears to be influencing both Republican lawmakers and conservative influencers, signaling a broader change in U.S. political dynamics regarding support for Ukraine.

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Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/29/nx-s1-5910639/did-zelenskyy-get-what-he-needed-from-his-d-c-visit-former-ambassador-weighs-in

Does anybody have any idea how much Money and Prestige the United States Supreme Court has cost our Nation with their negative Rulings on Birthright Citizenship and TARIFFS? The answer, TRILLIONS AND TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS! President DONALD J. TRUMP

Trump's Truth – Latest Posts — 2026-07-29 17:13:00 — trumpstruth.org

Trump Claims Supreme Court Rulings on Citizenship and Tariffs Cost U.S. “Trillions and Trillions of Dollars”

President Donald J. Trump has sharply criticized the United States Supreme Court, claiming its rulings on birthright citizenship and tariffs have inflicted massive financial and reputational damage on the nation. “Does anybody have any idea how much Money and Prestige the United States Supreme Court has cost our Nation with their negative Rulings on Birthright Citizenship and TARIFFS? The answer, TRILLIONS AND TRILLIONS OF DOLLARS!” Trump stated.

Exaggerated Financial Impact

Trump’s assertion that Supreme Court decisions have cost the U.S. “trillions and trillions of dollars” is a dramatic exaggeration. There is no credible evidence or economic analysis supporting the claim that court rulings on birthright citizenship or tariffs have resulted in losses on such a vast scale. The U.S. economy, while large, does not experience swings of “trillions and trillions” due to individual court decisions.

Attacks on the Supreme Court

By blaming the Supreme Court for alleged losses in both “money and prestige,” Trump continues a pattern of attacking institutions that do not align with his policy preferences or legal arguments. His statement singles out the justices for decisions he deems “negative,” without acknowledging the complex legal and constitutional issues at stake.

Fact-Checked Record

Trump’s history of making sweeping and unsubstantiated claims about economic losses is well-documented. In this instance, his statement about the Supreme Court’s impact is not supported by factual data or independent analysis. The use of extreme figures—“trillions and trillions of dollars”—serves to inflame rather than inform, and does not reflect the measured assessments of economists or legal scholars.

Conclusion

President Trump’s latest remarks blaming the Supreme Court for alleged massive financial and reputational losses continue his pattern of making exaggerated and unsubstantiated claims. While criticism of judicial decisions is not new in American politics, the scale and tone of Trump’s accusations stand out for their lack of factual basis and their potential to undermine public trust in key institutions. Readers should approach such statements with skepticism and seek out reliable information to understand the true impact of Supreme Court rulings.

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Source: https://trumpstruth.org/statuses/40393

The campaign against Fauci and what brought him back before Congress

PBS News Hour – Politics — 2026-07-29 17:52:00 — www.pbs.org

After President Trump retook office, his administration launched a sweeping campaign against Dr. Anthony Fauci, according to reporting by Katherine Wu of The Atlantic. One of Trump’s first actions in his second term was to strip Fauci of his federally sponsored security detail—a protection Fauci had maintained for nearly five years due to ongoing, credible death threats against him and his family. This move was widely seen as a targeted response, given the continued threats faced by Fauci.

The campaign extended beyond personal security. Trump’s officials tore down a mural featuring Fauci’s face, fired several of his closest colleagues at the National Institutes of Health, and even ousted his wife, who did not work in Fauci’s department. These actions were described as “petty” by Wu and interpreted by many former colleagues as an effort to erase Fauci’s legacy, with the administration seeking to “dismantle, destroy, or obliterate” anything associated with him.

This pattern of personal attacks and institutional purges highlights the extent to which Trump’s administration targeted Fauci following their public disagreements during the COVID-19 pandemic. The actions taken against Fauci and his associates mark a stark escalation in the politicization of public health leadership, raising concerns about the long-term impact on scientific integrity and government service.

In summary, President Trump’s second-term actions against Dr. Fauci were not limited to policy disagreements but included direct, punitive measures aimed at undermining Fauci’s safety, reputation, and professional legacy. This campaign underscores the deep divisions and personal animosity that have come to define the relationship between Trump and one of America’s most prominent public health officials.

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Source: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/the-campaign-against-fauci-and-what-brought-him-back-before-congress

Senators Cornyn and Tillis Force Delay of Blanche Nomination Over Trump’s IRS Deal

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-29 20:37:00 — www.nytimes.com

Trump Dismisses GOP Senator’s Concerns Over Controversial IRS Settlement Deal

President Trump brushed aside Senator John Cornyn’s objections to a controversial tax provision at the center of Todd Blanche’s stalled attorney general nomination, suggesting Cornyn’s resistance was personal rather than substantive. “I don’t know, maybe John Cornyn is upset with me because I didn’t endorse him,” Trump said to reporters at the Oval Office. “I don’t know what it is, but I haven’t heard that there’s a problem.”

The dispute centers on a settlement deal Blanche negotiated to resolve Trump’s lawsuit against the IRS. While Blanche agreed to drop a proposed $1.8 billion fund for alleged victims of Biden-era Justice Department actions, he insisted on keeping a provision that would shield Trump and his family from tax investigations. This audit shield has become the main sticking point, with Cornyn and Senator Thom Tillis threatening to block Blanche’s nomination unless the administration provides written guarantees limiting the scope of the deal.

Cornyn, who lost a primary to a Trump-backed challenger, rejected Trump’s claim that his opposition was motivated by personal grievances, calling it “a convenient excuse and it happens to be untrue.” He has demanded clear assurances that the audit shield will not extend to future tax liabilities or a broader group of people, warning that the provision could result in a $100 million windfall for Trump and his family.

Despite ongoing negotiations and mounting pressure, there is no indication that Trump or his administration are willing to concede on the audit protection. The episode highlights how Trump’s personal financial interests continue to shape high-level government decisions, raising concerns among both Democrats and Republicans about conflicts of interest and the integrity of the Justice Department.

As the confirmation process remains in limbo, the controversy underscores a defining feature of Trump’s second term: the intertwining of presidential power with personal benefit, and the willingness to dismiss or disparage critics—even within his own party—when challenged on ethical grounds.

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/29/us/politics/todd-blanche-senate-vote-irs.html

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy says he had a ‘good meeting’ with Trump in Washington : NPR

NPR Topics: Politics — 2026-07-29 05:50:00 — www.npr.org

Trump Offers Ukraine Missile Production License, Maintains Halt on U.S. Military Aid

President Donald Trump continues to shape U.S. policy toward Ukraine with a mix of restrictive aid measures and alternative offers, as highlighted in his recent meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. While Zelenskyy described the discussion as a “good meeting,” the underlying reality is that Trump has effectively cut off additional direct U.S. military aid to Ukraine, a position that remains unchanged despite ongoing Russian attacks.

Trump’s Alternative: Missile Production License

Instead of resuming direct arms shipments, Trump appears to be following through on an earlier offer to Zelenskyy, allowing Ukraine to obtain a license to build its own Patriot air defense missiles. This move, while significant on paper, presents major challenges. Manufacturing Patriot missiles is a highly complex process that could take years to yield results, offering no immediate solution to Ukraine’s urgent defense needs.

No Direct U.S. Weapons, Despite Escalating Attacks

The situation on the ground in Ukraine remains dire, with Russian drones and missiles targeting cities nightly. Ukraine’s supply of Patriot missiles is dwindling, and as a result, a higher percentage of Russian ballistic missiles are now reaching their targets. Trump’s refusal to authorize new U.S. military aid leaves Ukraine increasingly vulnerable, even as he promotes a long-term, domestically produced solution that cannot meet the current demand.

Trump’s Response to Russian-Iranian Cooperation

When asked about reports that Russia is sharing satellite data with Iran to help target U.S. troops in the Middle East, Trump responded that he would check with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. This statement underscores his ongoing approach of direct engagement with Russia, even as Ukraine and its allies seek stronger U.S. support.

Conclusion

President Trump’s current stance on Ukraine is defined by a halt to direct military aid and a complicated offer for missile production, which does little to address Ukraine’s immediate security crisis. His approach, including his stated intention to consult with Vladimir Putin on sensitive intelligence matters, continues to draw scrutiny as Ukraine faces mounting threats from Russia. The evolving relationship between Trump and Zelenskyy remains a critical factor in Ukraine’s fight for survival.

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Source: https://www.npr.org/2026/07/29/nx-s1-5910692/ukrainian-president-zelenskyy-says-he-had-a-good-meeting-with-trump-in-washington

Tributes, and Politics Too, at Lindsey Graham’s Funeral in South Carolina

NYT > U.S. > Politics — 2026-07-29 18:47:00 — www.nytimes.com

President Trump has endorsed Senator Darline Graham, the sister of the late Lindsey Graham, to run for the Senate seat left vacant by her brother’s passing. This endorsement has become a central dynamic in the crowded and competitive Republican primary in South Carolina.

Trump’s Influence on the South Carolina Senate Race

The late Senator Lindsey Graham was described as a favorite of President Trump and the Washington establishment, even as his relationship with South Carolina’s Republican voters was sometimes uneasy. Trump’s endorsement of Darline Graham to serve out the remainder of her brother’s term and to run for the next one has set her apart in a field of nine candidates, many of whom are seeking to distance themselves from aspects of Lindsey Graham’s record.

The Trump Factor and the MAGA Base

The excerpt highlights that some hard-line conservatives in South Carolina never forgave Lindsey Graham for his sharp criticism of Trump during the 2016 Republican presidential primary. Others in the MAGA base have viewed Graham’s hawkish foreign policy, particularly his support for war with Iran, as contrary to the “America First” approach that Trump promoted during his presidency.

Darline Graham’s campaign has received support not only from Trump but also from political committees previously aligned with her brother. However, the endorsement has not deterred other candidates, including Representative Russell Fry, who brands himself as a “conservative MAGA candidate,” from challenging her in the upcoming primary.

Conclusion

President Trump’s endorsement of Darline Graham underscores his continued influence over Republican politics in South Carolina, especially among the party’s base. As the candidates compete to define themselves in the shadow of both Lindsey Graham’s legacy and Trump’s ongoing role in the GOP, the race serves as a clear example of how Trump’s backing remains a powerful—if sometimes divisive—force in Republican primaries.

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Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/29/us/politics/lindsey-graham-funeral-south-carolina.html

Trump says he 'respects' Biden's pardon of Fauci

Administration News — 2026-07-29 17:27:00 — thehill.com

President Trump Responds to Biden’s Pardon of Dr. Fauci, Highlights Presidential Power

President Trump said Wednesday he respects President Biden’s decision to pardon Dr. Anthony Fauci, following reports that Fauci invoked the Fifth Amendment more than 100 times during a Senate hearing on the COVID-19 pandemic. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office, “The most powerful thing a president has, they say, is the power of pardon.”

Trump’s comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of Dr. Fauci’s role in the federal government’s pandemic response. The former health official’s repeated invocation of the Fifth Amendment during Senate questioning has fueled partisan debate over accountability and transparency regarding COVID-19 policies.

By expressing respect for the pardon and emphasizing the significance of presidential clemency, Trump positioned himself as acknowledging the gravity of the pardon power. His remarks did not include direct attacks or false claims about Fauci or the pardon process in this excerpt, but they reflect Trump’s ongoing engagement with high-profile pandemic figures and his willingness to comment on the actions of his successor.

Conclusion

President Trump’s response to the pardon of Dr. Fauci underscores his recognition of the presidential power of clemency. While his statement in this instance was measured and did not include the kind of false or disparaging remarks he has made in other contexts, it highlights his continued involvement in national discussions about the pandemic and the officials who shaped the government’s response.

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Source: https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5998179-trump-respects-biden-fauci-pardon/