Podcast Pain: Trump’s support from right-wing influencers is slipping over immigration, Gaza

Government Shutdown & Public Opinion - Public approval of both Democrats and Republicans regarding their handling of the government shutdown is low, with approval numbers in the 20s and low 30s [1] - Few Americans believe either Democrat or Republican positions are worth shutting the government down for [1] - A poll indicates that Trump and Republicans receive slightly more blame (39%) than Democrats (30%) for the government shutdown, while a third blame both equally [6] Healthcare & Political Strategy - Democrats may need to hold out for approximately three weeks, until around November 1st, due to the notification of insurance premium increases [3] - Republicans may not want to be associated with rising insurance premiums, such as a potential $15,000 increase per family [4] - The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is more of a Democrat issue, and Republicans risk alienating their constituents who benefit from it if they cannot afford their health insurance [4][5] - A dashboard showing how healthcare costs will increase in each congressional district is considered a compelling story [8] - Democrats should emphasize that Republicans control the government and could end the shutdown [9] Republican Party Division - The Republican party is experiencing splintering, with some popular male podcasters and their fans turning against Trump [12] - There are accusations within the Republican party of some individuals secretly working against Trump [12] - Trump's coalition in 2024 was broad, and the party's current state is described as a "house of cards" due to the inability to control the various factions [13][14]