Republican Party Splits and Inflation Issues Created Internally Complicate Trump’s Plans for a Second Term

President Donald Trump’s stronghold over the political landscape is beginning to show signs of strain, as worries about rising living costs and internal rifts within the Republican Party put his bid for a second term at risk. Although the GOP suffered setbacks in pivotal states such as Georgia and Pennsylvania during the November elections, party leaders continue to rally behind Trump, maintaining that his leadership and policy direction are vital to their continued relevance.

that the party stands "completely united" behind Trump’s "America First agenda" and his track record on the economy, even as more voters identify affordability as a pressing concern.

Yet, Trump’s authority within the party is not absolute. A new challenge surfaced when dissenting Republicans, including Representative Thomas Massie, advocated for the release of documents related to the Jeffrey Epstein investigation—a move Trump has now supported after previously resisting it.

a "Democrat hoax" designed to undermine his campaign for re-election. This controversy has divided Republican lawmakers, with some breaking ranks to demand openness, exposing fractures in a party long known for its unity behind the .

Adding to Trump’s difficulties, his economic approach—especially his hardline tariff policies—has come under fire for contributing to higher inflation and increased grocery bills. In a notable policy shift, the administration recently reduced tariffs on essential goods like beef and coffee,

address a problem that critics argue Trump’s own policies created. While the administration touts these changes as evidence of Trump’s willingness to adapt, Democrats and many economists maintain that the tariffs have consistently driven up consumer prices. remarked, "They’re trying to fix a problem of their own making."

The urgency of the affordability issue has grown as Trump enters his "lame duck" phase. With the Constitution preventing him from seeking a third term, Trump’s political path beyond 2030 is increasingly unclear.

, observing that although Trump’s endorsements still carry weight for Republican hopefuls, his sway is diminishing as his presidency nears its end. At the same time, the administration’s attempts to improve its economic messaging—such as the recent tariff reductions—have not eased public anxiety over the cost of living, dampen public confidence.