RismadarVoice Reporters
September 12, 2026
A top political adviser to US President Donald Trump, James Blair, has expressed cautious optimism that Republicans can retain their majorities in Congress in the November midterm elections despite challenges facing the party.
Blair, who heads Trump-aligned super PAC MAGA Inc., said Republicans still have a path to maintaining control of both chambers, although he acknowledged that the election would be difficult.
He pointed to President Trump’s low approval ratings, voter concerns over the economy and inflation, as well as dissatisfaction with the administration’s handling of the war with Iran as major challenges for the Republican Party.
An NBC News poll cited in the report showed that 36 per cent of US adults approved of Trump’s overall performance, while only 31 per cent approved of his handling of the Iran conflict.
Blair, however, argued that concerns over the war could ease as the situation stabilises, while urging Republican candidates to focus on both national and local issues during their campaigns.
He also defended the administration’s economic record, blaming inflationary pressures partly on policies inherited from former President Joe Biden and arguing that Republicans needed more time to address the problem.
Trump has increasingly involved himself in the midterm elections, planning to campaign in several races and urging supporters to act as though he were personally on the ballot.
Blair said Trump could be particularly effective in mobilising voters who typically participate in presidential elections but stay away from midterm polls.
Meanwhile, MAGA Inc. has begun deploying its financial resources ahead of the elections. The super PAC reportedly had more than $400 million in its war chest at the end of July.
The group has already committed $10 million for television advertising in the Texas Senate race and is reportedly backing a new political group expected to spend about $49 million on Senate contests across the country.
Blair said the Trump-aligned organisation would deploy its resources aggressively in competitive races as Republicans seek to protect their congressional majorities.
