Could Trump Cost Republicans the 2026 Midterms?

Could the same issues that helped Donald Trump win the 2024 presidential election now cost Republicans the 2026 midterms? In this episode of New Frontiers, Paul Johnson is joined by Bob Robb and Henry Thompson to examine whether the issues that brought Trump back to the White House are now hurting Republicans, particularly among Independent voters, and what the election could mean for the future of both political parties. The panel explores Trump's economic policies, the impact of tariffs and immigration enforcement on the cost of living, and how U.S. foreign policy toward Iran and the war in Ukraine could influence voters. The discussion also looks at the broader implications for American politics, including the growing influence of Democratic socialism, America's national debt, the possibility of congressional investigations, and whether the Republican Party can find a new direction after Trump. Lastly, Paul, Bob, and Henry share their predictions for which party will control the House and Senate, along with potential election surprises. Will the 2026 midterms mark a turning point in American politics? Chapters:  00:00 - Could Trump Cost Republicans the Midterms?  02:36 - Intro  03:07 - Why Independent Voters May Be Shifting   07:59 - Trump's Biggest Political Challenges 13:13 - Has Trump's Immigration Strategy Backfired? 15:31 - Tariffs, Inflation, and the Cost of Living 19:55 - Trump’s Economic philosophy  22:39 - Ukraine, Iran, and Trump's Foreign Policy 28:13 - What Happens if Democrats Win Congress? 34:02 - Democratic Socialism and Lessons From France  44:33 - America's Growing National Debt  47:33 - What Comes Next for Democrats and Republicans? 53:14 - The Political Cost of Congressional Investigations 01:01:36 - Can the GOP Return to Its Conservative Roots? 01:08:46 - 2026 Midterm Election Predictions 1:12:58 - Final Remarks and Conclusion