Has MAGA Lost Faith in Donald Trump?
Oct 19, 2026 · 33m
Summary
David Remnick interviews MAGA-aligned pollster Rich Barris, who predicts a "blue wave" in the November midterms due to deep voter disillusionment. Barris attributes the decline in Trump support to the Iran war, economic inflation, and the "grift" of the Trump family, noting that even core supporters feel betrayed. He argues the Republican Party is a "scam" that ignores its base, and while he sees J.D. Vance as the likely 2028 nominee, he believes Trumpism is fracturing.
Topics discussed
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Introduction to The New Yorker Radio Hour
Context: Trump's denial and the midterm outlook
Rich Barris on being labeled a MAGA pollster
Barris's initial attraction to Trump's independence
The fraying bond between Trump and his voters
The Epstein files as the first breaking point
Barris's regret and the 'low propensity' voter
Key issues: Iran, prices, and the 'grift'
Focus groups reveal MAGA voter disappointment
Prediction: Republicans lose the House in November
Trump's unpopularity compared to post-Jan 6 levels
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Resuming interview: The coming blue wave
Senate races: Maine, Michigan, and polling trends
Surprise races in Nebraska and Kansas
Alaska and Texas: The cost of saving Ken Paxton
The reversal of Hispanic voter support
Why immigration enforcement tactics hurt Trump
Can Trump change the outcome before election day?
Scenario: A lame duck presidency and impeachment
The Republican Party as a 'scam' for donors
2028 GOP candidates: Vance vs. Rubio
Tucker Carlson's influence on the future of the right
Trump's successes: Shifting the Overton window
Blame games and the squandered coalition opportunity
Conclusion and book promotion
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