Key Takeaways:

• Former Bush speechwriter David Frum likens President Trump to a man racing up a downward-moving escalator.
• MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace calls Trump a “flailing, lame duck president” plagued by scandals and broken promises.
• A new poll finds Trump’s approval ratings below water on every major issue, including the economy.
• Grassroots resistance and public protests show that pushing back against Trump’s agenda remains strong.

Trump Struggle Escalates at the UN

David Frum wrote a sharp column saying President Trump looks like a man trying to race up a downward-moving escalator. He published it just before Trump’s awkward moment at the United Nations, when the president literally stepped off a crowded escalator. Frum says Trump keeps pulling himself down faster as that escalator speeds up against him.

Meanwhile, MSNBC host Nicolle Wallace opened her show by reading Frum’s words aloud. She added that Trump now seems like a “flailing, lame duck president.” She noted his ties to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein and his team’s mishandling of that case. Wallace said Trump can’t outrun the questions surrounding his private life and his broken promises on key issues.

How Trump’s Struggle Sparks Wider Resistance

Wallace pointed out that Trump still faces low approval on almost everything. People expected Republicans to lead on the economy. Yet only 40 percent say Trump is doing a good job there. Moreover, his pledge to end the war in Ukraine on day one and to lower grocery costs remains unfulfilled.

Therefore, allies in politics and media are stepping back. As Frum explained, autocrats depend on others to spread their message. Now, those helpers are busy putting on their own oxygen masks first. In effect, Trump’s struggle to keep support grows as friends distance themselves.

Approval Ratings Hit New Lows

A new Ipsos and Washington Post poll shows Trump underwater on every major issue. On healthcare, immigration, and crime, he trails badly. Even on the economy—where Republicans usually have an edge—he scores only 40 percent approval. This drop signals that many Americans no longer trust his leadership.

Furthermore, Wallace said the tally of unkept promises keeps growing. From rural communities to big cities, people feel let down. They wanted quick solutions to inflation and gas prices. Instead, they see those costs rise. Consequently, voters question Trump’s ability to deliver on his word.

Allies Take Their Own Oxygen Masks

Resistance is not just a slogan. Wallace cited ABC’s Jimmy Kimmel, who faced a conservative campaign to cancel his show. At first, Disney and ABC stayed silent. Yet as more First Amendment supporters spoke up, the network backed down. This pushback shows that standing up to pressure can work.

Moreover, millions turned out at the “No Kings” protest earlier this year. Others rallied against Tesla’s workplace practices. Activists also helped secure a win in Wisconsin’s Supreme Court race. Each example proves that organized resistance stops powerful figures when people unite.

Grassroots Momentum Grows

Because of these wins, more Americans feel empowered. They see that public pressure forces change. For instance, teachers, nurses, and students have joined protests. Farmers, shop owners, and tech workers have also raised their voices. As a result, Trump’s inner circle feels that heat too.

However, the president continues his fight. He holds rallies and posts on social media. He blames critics and claims victory at every turn. Yet data shows his support slipping. Meanwhile, resistance forces gain new energy.

Looking Ahead

As Trump heads into the next election cycle, his struggle will only matter more. Supporters will watch his every move. Opponents will look for fresh ways to push back. In the end, the battle over his agenda may test the strength of America’s democracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did David Frum say about Trump’s escalator moment?

He compared Trump to a man running up a downward-moving escalator, saying it shows how the president fights forces pulling him down.

Why are Trump’s approval ratings dropping on the economy?

A recent poll found only 40 percent of Americans approve of his economic record, marking a rare low for his party on this issue.

How did resistance help Jimmy Kimmel?

After conservatives pushed to cancel his show, more people spoke out for free speech. Disney and ABC then decided not to drop him.

What examples show grassroots resistance against Trump?

Protests like “No Kings,” rallies over Tesla, and the Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign all demonstrate citizens uniting against his influence.