# Trump's grip slips as GOP candidates distance themselves

> Two-thirds of Republican candidates are distancing from Trump ahead of midterms.
- Title: Trump's grip slips as GOP candidates distance themselves
- Summary: Two-thirds of Republican candidates are distancing from Trump ahead of midterms. Two-thirds of Republican candidates in competitive races have broken with…
- Keywords: trump, gop, us house, us senate, republican candidates, midterm elections, voter dissatisfaction, policy disagreements, business, money, news, Trump's
- Source: Financialexpress — https://financialexpress.com/world-news/us-news/trumps-grip-slips-2-in-3-gop-candidates-are-keeping-distance-poll/4356921
- Author: Anjana PV
- Published: 2026-10-08T17:42:36+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: trump, gop, us house, us senate, republican candidates, midterm elections, voter dissatisfaction, policy disagreements, business, money, news
## Republican candidates distancing from Trump
Two-thirds of Republican candidates in competitive US House and Senate races have either broken with Trump on policy or played down ties to him.
## Trump's approval rating at 32%
Trump's approval rating remains at the lowest 32% as voter dissatisfaction grows.
## Voter preference shift
Registered voters favor Democrats over Republicans 44% to 37% ahead of midterms, with independents favoring Democrats 37% to 21%.
## Policy disagreements in races
Policy differences were the most common form of disagreement, appearing in 23 of 62 competitive races reviewed by Reuters.
## Iran conflict focus
The Iran conflict was at the center of 12 contests, with some candidates voting to limit Trump's war powers.
## Campaign messaging changes
Twelve candidates removed Trump's name, image or endorsements from campaign websites after securing their party's nomination.
## Republican strategist comments
Republican strategist Ron Bonjean said candidates are reflecting voter attitudes: 'If (voters) are not with Trump, then they need to show a break.'

> If (voters) are not with Trump, then they need to show a break.
## Enthusiasm gap
Only 30% of Trump voters are 'very enthusiastic' about voting in November, compared with 48% of Kamala Harris supporters.
## Men shift to Democrats
Men favored Democrats over Republicans 43% to 39% in congressional races, a four-point Democratic advantage.
## Older voters still lean Republican
Older voters now favor Republicans 44% to 42%, though the Republican lead has narrowed from an eight-point advantage in December.
## Key takeaway

Two-thirds of Republican candidates in competitive races have broken with Trump on policy or reduced ties, signaling voter dissatisfaction with his leadership.