Staff Reports
Washington, DC has once again found itself embroiled in controversy, but the American people are too busy enjoying their Thanksgiving leftovers to care. In fact, they appear to be quite content with what’s brewing in Trump’s presidential transition kitchen. Recent polling data suggests that while the usual political drama unfolds, Trump is pulling even at 48-48 in terms of favorability. Meanwhile, both his defeated opponent and the current, less-than-popular incumbent are floundering in double-digit negativity. One could almost hear the crickets chirping for the other side as polling shows voters approving of the transition at a solid 52% to 38%.
Even more amusing, every Trump nominee is doing better in popularity than those opposing them. Morning Consult shows that the approval ratings for Trump’s selections are above water, which is more than can be said for some folks in the current administration. Leading the pack, Marco Rubio has made waves with high approval for his potential role at State – more like Marco “Make America Great Again” than those currently in charge, some might say.
Among Trump’s nominees is the much-discussed Defense Secretary-designate Pete Hegseth. His favorability rating is just above that of a houseplant, but at least it’s above water. This nomination is causing the predictable storm of allegations and muck-raking aimed at Trump’s candidates. Hegseth recently addressed his critics with a piece in the Wall Street Journal, where he pulled a personal card, recounting his trials and tribulations. Through all of this, it’s clear he remains undeterred, facing his nomination and the scrutiny with the bravery typical of those who have faced combat.
All of Trump's Nominees Are Viewed More Favorably Than Unfavorablyhttps://t.co/PUIoduqP95
— Biff Smallberries (@B_Smallberries) December 5, 2024
The media seems keen on painting Hegseth as a villain, but multiple voices from his past – including former co-hosts and a Medal of Honor recipient – have taken to social media to blast the hit piece by NBC News. This coterie of defenders has been quick to brand the report as pure conjecture, suggesting that if the mainstream media had their way, they’d serve up a juicy smear with a double side of sensationalism. It’s almost as if the media thinks they can manufacture scandals out of thin air, like a magician’s trick gone horribly wrong.
Ultimately, the situation reflects the increasing disconnect between Washington elites and the average American voter. While the politicians absorb drama like a sponge, the citizens seemingly want a leader who isn’t afraid to shake things up and stand up against “the establishment.” With Trump’s upcoming confirmation process set to resemble less of a review and more of a circus, Hegseth is ready to prove he’s not just another nominee on the chopping block. If anyone is looking for a fight, it seems the mainstream media better bring their best – because as it stands, Pete Hegseth is primed and ready for an honest conversation about securing America’s defense, whether the press likes it or not.
