Trump officials fear ‘brutal’ fallout if GOP loses midterms: Report
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump’s administration is facing growing internal tensions as aides and allies prepare for the possibility of significant Republican losses in the November 3 midterm elections, according to a report by CNN.
The report, citing administration officials, advisers and close allies, described the mounting mistrust and competition over who could be held responsible if Democrats gain control of Congress. Officials are also reportedly anticipating potential personnel changes across the administration following the election.
Trump allies warn of ‘brutal’ infighting as aides brace for election fallout
Senior White House correspondent Kristen Holmes reported that officials were increasingly concerned about the consequences of a poor Republican performance, particularly if Democrats take control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
“Inside the White House, the knives are out. There is fear of a rampage by President Trump if they do lose those midterms, particularly both the Senate and the House,” the report said.
One Trump ally described the internal atmosphere as unusually hostile, saying that “it's more brutal than any other situation in modern times in the White House. You can't trust anybody here.”
A Trump adviser also warned of potential repercussions if Republicans lose both chambers of Congress, telling the outlet that “everyone is fair game.”
The report said that recent controversies have intensified tensions within Trump’s political circle. Trump removed Kimberly Guilfoyle from her position as ambassador to Greece following damaging reports after a Republican donor alleged she had asked him for $100,000 to pay off her credit card.
The president also ordered an investigation into a dispute between allies Alina Habba Mildon and Ric Grenell over allegations involving money intended for the Kennedy Center, according to a source familiar with the matter.
Trump also fired press secretary Katie Zacharia after just five days in the role. Meanwhile, Chief of Staff Susie Wiles and political advisers James Blair and Chris LaCivita have faced unflattering coverage, prompting speculation about their standing with the president. However, their defenders have suggested that some reports were driven by rivals seeking to weaken their influence.
Pete Hegseth, Chris Wright among officials facing questions over possible departures
The anticipated election outcome is also reportedly raising questions about the future of Cabinet officials who could face congressional scrutiny if Democrats gain power. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been the subject of speculation about his position, while some officials have reportedly suggested that Energy Secretary Chris Wright could consider leaving for a more lucrative private-sector opportunity.
However, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell rejected speculation surrounding Hegseth, saying that the defense secretary was not focused on “fake news or DC noise.” An Energy Department spokesperson also denied that Wright was considering leaving, saying that he would remain in the role “as long as the president wants him to serve.”
Trump has expressed confidence that his campaign appearances will help Republicans retain control of Congress. However, the report said many aides remain pessimistic about the party’s prospects, particularly in the House, while concerns have also grown about the Senate race.
