Friends and political allies need to have a serious conversation with Trump, emphasizing the importance of changing his strategy to avoid a loss in November. They must impress upon him that past luck is no longer a reliable asset and remind him of how fortunate he was in 2016, running against a candidate less popular than himself.
In 2024, Trump’s good fortune seemed to continue when he faced a weakened Joe Biden, who appeared frail during a debate. However, with Biden out of the race, Trump’s luck may have ended. Now, he faces Kamala Harris, a 59-year-old woman of color who introduces a fresh dynamic to the campaign, shifting the focus onto Trump as the aging, out-of-touch candidate.
According to E.J. Dionne, Harris has effectively turned the age issue against Trump, making his rants seem more like the complaints of an irritable old man than insightful political commentary. Trump’s supporters and conservative media allies should tell him that derogatory labels and childish nicknames for Harris might entertain his base but alienate critical suburban and college-educated voters.
Trump’s friends also need to confront the uncomfortable truth: he has become monotonous. The repeated claims about the stolen 2020 election and his grievances have grown stale. With the political landscape having evolved visibly, Trump’s routine act is losing its appeal.
Despite dramatic events in this political cycle, including a disastrous debate and major shifts in leadership, Trump’s repeated focus on past grievances and personal attacks on key figures, like Georgia’s governor, reflect poorly on his campaign strategy.
As Harris and her new running mate, Tim Walz, focus on the future, Trump must understand that his current approach may not suffice. Hard work and discipline are crucial, but there’s little indication he’s ready to adapt.
For Trump to pivot effectively, he needs an intervention from courageous friends willing to speak hard truths. Without such honesty and a willingness to embrace change, Trump may face a repeat of the 2020 outcome.