A Stubbornly Naive Group of GOP Senators
The Atlantic critiques a group of non-MAGA Republican senators for their perceived naivety regarding Donald Trump's political promises. The piece highlights the recent confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General despite concerns over his independence.
Why it matters
It examines the shifting dynamics within the Republican party and the potential erosion of institutional norms in the Justice Department.
A small caucus of non-MAGA Republicans keeps falling for the president’s flimsy promises.
Anna Moneymaker / Getty August 19, 2026, 5:11 PM ET Share Save This is an edition of The Atlantic Daily, a newsletter that guides you through the biggest stories of the day, helps you discover new ideas, and recommends the best in culture. Sign up for it here.
For many observers of American politics, the past few years have been disillusioning, knocking down hopeful beliefs about what the people of the United States will support or tolerate. Even some of Donald Trump’s backers have become disaffected .
Yet somehow, a small caucus of non-MAGA Republican senators has managed to remain preciously naive about the president and the administration he runs. No matter how many times Trump or his aides show who they are and how they operate, these senators seem flabbergasted and saddened.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in