Obama, Trump intensify rhetoric as 2026 US midterm campaigns turn ugly

Former President Donald Trump is actively shaping the 2026 U.S. election landscape through various means, including highly scrutinized campaign advertisements. His administration has utilized U.S. government funds for at least 13 campaign-style TV ads, which have drawn bipartisan criticism for their political nature and proximity to the November midterms. These ads, which feature Trump discussing themes like defeating communism and promoting a "golden age of America," are defended by the White House as public service announcements, despite concerns from lawmakers about their legality and appropriateness. Additionally, Trump has personally influenced advertising strategies for Republican candidates, urging the party to embrace more aggressive tactics. Concerns have also been raised regarding the Trump administration's broader efforts to influence election integrity, with polls indicating a majority of voters believe Trump aims to extend his influence over state election rules to favor Republicans.

Amidst this contentious political environment, former President Barack Obama has weighed in, warning that the country is facing a "dangerous moment" under Trump's presidency. Ahead of the midterms, Obama encouraged American voters to support Democrats to counter the current administration, emphasizing that norms and guardrails he and previous presidents adhered to are no longer applying. He has also critiqued the current political climate, suggesting a lack of solidarity around basic principles and a tendency for "old men clinging to power."

Voter frustrations are notably high, with a significant majority expressing a desire for change in Washington. An AP-NORC poll revealed that about half of registered voters prefer Democratic control of Congress, and a large proportion desire either "substantial change" or "complete and total upheaval" in the country's direction. A major driver of this dissatisfaction appears to be President Trump's handling of economic issues; approximately eight in ten registered voters disapprove of his performance regarding the cost of living, and about three-quarters disapprove of his economic leadership.