Poll after poll have shown two issues – the economy and access to healthcare – are the most important concerns for American voters.
The White House knows it and Donald Trump’s top aides have repeatedly urged him to focus on these subjects when speaking to the public.
You might have assumed what from the president said in a prime time address on Thursday – a mash of wild claims apparently not backed by evidence that China actually interfered with the 2020 election and long-debunked allegations the country’s election system was “vulnerable” to attack – that Trump has not been told about such polls.
Or you might more wisely conclude Trump is very much aware of the economic pain millions are suffering as a result of his policies and has chosen to try and distract people rather than addressing the rising cost of living and the spike in petrol prices triggered by his decision to go to war with Iran.
FBI director Kash Patel holds a name card as he arrives before President Donald Trump speaks at the White House. (Picture: Saul Loeb/Pool via AP)
