Trump’s economy is ‘choking’ the middle class as his poll numbers fall: Dem strategist

Economic Performance & Concerns - President Trump's job approval rating stands at 42%, with 56% disapproving, while his economic approval is at 36%, and cost of living handling at 30% [1] - Unemployment has reached 7 million, and layoffs surged 40% last month [2] - American credit card debt is at $1.2 trillion, driven by reliance on credit for basic necessities [3] - August inflation ticked up to 4.3%, the highest since 2021, and manufacturing activity has shrunk for six consecutive months [17][18] Political Power & Public Opinion - 62% of Americans oppose presidential control over local police, 59% oppose control over museums and theaters, and 57% oppose control over interest rates and manufacturing locations [8] - Only 31% believe the president should operate without interference from courts and Congress [11] - A base of about 40% of the country consistently supports President Trump [7][15] Democratic Strategy - Democrats must highlight the economic struggles of the middle class and incorporate it into their messaging [3][9] - Democrats need to emphasize the importance of autonomy and the dangers of a president behaving like a king [9][10] - Democrats should advocate for increased police funding, contrasting it with budget cuts [11]