Key facts
- Lara Trump believes the Iran war could cost Republicans the midterm elections.
- President Donald Trump said it's 'possible' the war could hurt Republicans but also that his stance on Iran's nuclear program could help.
- The economic toll of the Iran war, including rising gas prices, is a factor in voter consideration.
- Moody's Analytics estimated the war cost US households $100 billion in its first three months.
Lara Trump, daughter-in-law of President Donald Trump, suggested that the ongoing war with Iran could negatively impact Republican chances in the upcoming midterm elections, citing the conflict's rising economic toll on Americans. Speaking on the YouTube show "Harry Cole Saves the West" on Wednesday, she stated, "Well, it could cost him these midterms." She also commented on President Trump's legacy, saying it has yet to be written but that he would be remembered as one of America's greatest presidents.
When asked about his daughter-in-law's assessment on Thursday, President Trump told reporters that it was "possible" the war could hurt Republicans. However, he also argued that his administration's efforts to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon "should help" the party. "So when you say, 'Is it OK for Iran to have a nuclear weapon?' I would say 100% of the people say no, including worldwide," he said. "So when you say it that way, it would help. If you don't say that, it could hurt."
While Lara Trump holds no official role in the administration, her comments represent a rare acknowledgment from someone close to the president that Republicans might face challenges in maintaining control of Congress if the war persists. She also expressed that President Trump "really hates the way that things have gone with Iran" and wished for swifter developments.
Earlier, Vice President JD Vance had taken a different stance in September when asked about the war's duration, stating he "wouldn't call it a war" and attributing its continuation to the Iranians. The economic consequences of the conflict, including increased energy prices and inflation, are seen as a significant factor for voters. Moody's Analytics estimated in June that the war had cost U.S. households $100 billion in its first three months, averaging nearly $750 per household.