President Donald Trump, twice impeached during his time in office, voiced concern Tuesday that Democrats could pursue a third attempt to remove him if Republicans lose control in the upcoming midterm elections.
“You got to win the midterms, because if we don’t win the midterms, they’ll find a reason to impeach me,” Mr. Trump told House Republicans at the start of an all-day policy forum. “I’ll get impeached.”
The remarks, delivered inside the Trump-Kennedy Center, a performing arts venue recently renamed in his honor; marked a rare admission of vulnerability from a president who often projects himself as immune to political and legal challenges.
Democrats have gained ground in national polls during the first year of Mr. Trump’s second term, fueled by criticism of his immigration policies, foreign policy decisions and handling of the economy. His warning suggested a recognition that his agenda has not fully resonated with voters.
Mr. Trump faulted the press for failing to highlight what he described as his achievements, including a crackdown on illegal immigration and a deal with drug companies to lower prescription prices. Yet he urged Republicans to campaign instead on divisive cultural issues, such as transgender women’s participation in sports and violent crime.
Calling for party unity, Mr. Trump pressed Republicans to reclaim health care as a central issue, particularly abortion legislation. He pointed to disputes over the Hyde Amendment, which restricts federal funding for abortions, and advised lawmakers to show flexibility. “You got to be a little flexible. You got to work something. We’re all big fans of everything but you got to have flexibility,” he said.
The president also reiterated support for mandatory voter ID laws, a priority that has remained close to him since the January 6 Capitol riots, which stemmed from his repeated but unproven claims that the 2020 election was stolen by President Joe Biden.
