Political strategist warns Trump is losing influence and facing growing opposition within GOP

Steve Schmidt, a Republican strategist known for managing John McCain's 2008 presidential campaign, has issued a stark assessment of former President Donald Trump's political standing. In his recent Substack newsletter, Schmidt argues that Trump's influence over the Republican Party is weakening and highlights evidence suggesting that his perceived invincibility is eroding. According to Schmidt, Trump's power has historically been rooted more in fear than ideology, patriotism, or conservative principles, with allies fearing retaliation, humiliation, or political fallout. Schmidt points to several developments as signs of this decline: a federal judge blocking Trump's $1.8 billion 'anti-weaponization' fund, ongoing legal challenges to tariff schemes, resistance to White House projects, and conflicts such as the Kennedy Center dispute. He also notes public actions by GOP senators like Thom Tillis and John Cornyn as indications that party members are beginning to calculate independently of Trump's protection. Schmidt draws parallels to past political downfalls, including Richard Nixon and Joe McCarthy, warning that cornered leaders can become particularly dangerous. The analysis emphasizes the potential risks posed by Trump's diminishing control and the unpredictable consequences for both his party and the broader political landscape.