IS the America First deep MAGA turning against Trump?

 

IS the America First deep MAGA turning against Trump?

As of early 2026, the "America First" and "Deep MAGA" movements are experiencing significant internal friction rather than a unified abandonment of Donald Trump. While core loyalty remains high among the general Republican base, several key issues have created rare public breaks between Trump and prominent MAGA figures.

 

Recent developments include:

Key Areas of Friction

Foreign Policy Contradictions: A major rift has emerged regarding Trump's move away from isolationism. His 2026 military actions in Venezuela and threats regarding Greenland and Iran have been labeled as "nation-building" by hardliners. Figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and Tucker Carlson have criticized these as "America Last" interventions that risk "open-ended conflicts".

The "Epstein Files" Fallout: The Trump administration’s July 2025 memo stating there was no incriminating "client list" for Jeffrey Epstein sparked a "convulsive uprising" among dedicated supporters who believed Trump would expose a "cabal". This led to a public falling out with Rep. Greene, who claimed the "base is jaded" and prepared to leave Congress early in 2026.

Economic Impatience: While the base initially supported Trump's tariffs, polls from late 2025 show that 25% of Republicans now disapprove of his handling of them, with nearly half fearing they worsen inflation.

Immigration Discontent: Some MAGA supporters were reportedly in an "uproar" over Trump's comments regarding H-1B visas, which they felt favored foreign skilled workers over American wages.

Status of the Movement

A "Separate" Coalition: Analysts now describe two distinct groups: the MAGA camp, which remains personally loyal to Trump's charisma, and an emerging America First coalition led by figures like Carlson and Steve Bannon, who are increasingly grounded in anti-interventionism and skepticism of Trump's specific policy shifts.

Overall Approval: Despite these "cracks," Trump’s approval rating among Republicans remains high at approximately 85%. Most core supporters continue to give him the "benefit of the doubt" on foreign policy, even when it appears to contradict his campaign promises.

The "Base" vs. Swing Voters: Most experts suggest Trump is not losing his core base but is instead "bleeding support" among low-propensity swing voters and independents who are skeptical of his second-term international "whims".