Democrats Say Trump Is Done
Veteran Democratic strategist James Carville said this week that President Donald Trump’s hardline immigration rhetoric is no longer having the political effect it once did as the 2026 midterm elections approach.
During a Wednesday appearance on the political program Politicon, Carville argued that Trump’s confrontational style on immigration and related cultural issues has begun to wear thin with voters.
“He’s finished politically,” Carville claimed, insisting the president’s messaging is failing to gain new support. The longtime Democratic adviser mocked Trump’s influence, arguing that his ability to dominate political debate has declined.
Carville specifically pointed to recent comments Trump made involving Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) and broader references to the Somali immigrant community, suggesting that such remarks — combined with the administration’s strict immigration enforcement policies — could shape campaign dynamics next year.
“He’s already paying a political price, and that’s not going away,” Carville said.
The outspoken Democrat also urged fellow liberals to stop portraying Trump as a political mastermind, dismissing the idea that the president remains an unbeatable force at the ballot box.
“This isn’t political magic,” Carville said. “The strategy is obvious.”
Trump Defends Tough Immigration Policies
Carville’s remarks followed a recent Trump rally where the president defended his administration’s immigration record and emphasized policies he says are designed to protect American workers, taxpayers, and national security.
At the event, Trump sharply criticized Rep. Omar and reiterated his opposition to large-scale migration from countries experiencing severe instability. He later highlighted his decision to pause migration from several high-risk regions, arguing the move was necessary to restore border control and reduce strain on public resources.
Trump’s comments, while applauded by supporters who favor stronger border enforcement, drew criticism from major media outlets and immigration advocacy groups. Editorial boards and activist organizations accused the president of using divisive language, claims the administration has repeatedly rejected.
Media Backlash and Voter Reaction
A Minnesota newspaper editorial condemned Trump’s remarks, arguing they unfairly characterized immigrant communities — a position echoed by several progressive advocacy groups.
Carville, however, insisted the political consequences are becoming clear.
“Voters are seeing this, and they’re responding to it,” he said.
Despite repeated predictions of Trump’s political decline from Democratic strategists over the years, the president remains one of the most influential figures in American politics, continuing to drive headlines, media coverage, and voter engagement nationwide as the next election cycle approaches.
