Radical right-wing parties have advanced across Western countries by successfully tying immigration to voters’ diffuse fears about their economic well-being, personal security, and cultural identity. Rather than ignoring or co-opting such claims, mainstream parties must offer equally robust counternarratives.
VIENNA/CHICAGO—With less than two months to go until the US midterm elections, President Donald Trump is more unpopular than ever, with his approval rating having dropped to a record low of 33%. Among the reasons for Americans’ dissatisfaction are his attacks on democratic institutions and principles, the economy (which only 4% of poll respondents see as “very strong”), his and his family’s personal enrichment, and the war in Iran (which 68% oppose).