Donald Trump's baffling 24 hours have culminated in a new poll suggesting that a majority of Americans question his mental capacity to serve as President. The Fox News survey found that only 45% of voters believe Trump possesses the mental soundness for the job, while just 42% think he has the right judgement and 40% the appropriate temperament. These figures come as the Trump administration faces multiple crises, including potential Iran talks, a Pentagon memo threatening allies, and the departure of Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Iran Talks Potentially Back On
Trump is sending envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Pakistan to meet with Iran's foreign minister. The talks, scheduled for Saturday, come as global tensions rise over the Iran war, which has disrupted energy exports through the Strait of Hormuz and caused thousands of deaths across the Middle East. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived in Islamabad on Friday, stating his trip focuses on "bilateral matters and regional developments." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed hope for a productive conversation. Notably, Vice President JD Vance, who was previously prepared to travel to Pakistan for cancelled talks, will not attend but remains "deeply involved."
Leavitt Departs for Maternity Leave
Karoline Leavitt gave her final press gaggle before going on maternity leave. She left with a memorable one-liner: "You won't be seeing me every day, but as I understand it you all have the President's phone number anyway." According to Politico, no official replacement will be named; instead, cabinet officials, Vance, or Trump himself will brief the press.
Americans Doubt Trump's Mental Capacity
The Fox News poll reveals troubling numbers for Trump. While 56% of voters doubt the White House's competence (similar to previous administrations), the personal ratings are harsher. Only 42% approve of Trump's job performance, while Vance polls at 44%. Just 42% say Trump has the judgement, 40% the temperament, and 45% the mental soundness to be President. A mere 37% believe Trump cares about people like them.
Historical Low Approval Ratings
CNN's Harry Enten reported that Trump's economic poll numbers are the worst of any president in history. The New York Times poll average puts his approval at 39%, the lowest since his re-election.
Fed Chair Probe Dropped
Former TV judge-turned US Attorney Jeannine Pirro announced the Justice Department is dropping its probe into Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell's handling of the bank's headquarters. The probe was seen as a pretext to fire Powell. Its dismissal removes a roadblock to confirming Kevin Warsh as Powell's successor. Pirro has failed to successfully prosecute anyone since her appointment.
Firing Squad Reintroduced for Federal Executions
The Trump administration is taking steps to expedite death penalty cases, including reintroducing the firing squad as an execution method. The Justice Department stated it is readopting the lethal injection protocol from the first Trump term and expanding options to include firing squads, streamlining internal processes for capital cases.
Lincoln Reflecting Pool Refurbishment Controversy
Images of the Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool's "refurbishment" have sparked outrage. Trump rejected a meticulous $300 million renovation plan, instead hiring hotel pool contractors to patch it up with pool liner and spray-paint the natural granite "American Flag Blue." Trump reportedly wanted it turquoise "like they have in the Bahamas." The result has been widely criticized.
