McConnell avoids Trump comparison, backs Biden on Ukraine

Sen. Mitch McConnell has refused to weigh in on whether he believes the United States is in a stronger position now than during Donald Trump’s presidency, instead emphasizing concerns about foreign affairs and national security.

According to Breitbart, in a recent interview, the Kentucky Republican outlined his criticisms of Trump’s policies, voiced support for President Joe Biden’s stance on Ukraine, and responded to recurring scrutiny over his ties to China through his wife’s family business.

The interview, published by the Lexington Herald-Leader on a Wednesday, reflected McConnell’s shift in focus during his final years in the Senate. Having stepped away from party leadership, he now concentrates on defense and global policy challenges, particularly in light of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

McConnell Raises Global Security Concerns

McConnell, who has long disagreed with Trump’s approach to foreign and trade policy, said it is too soon to judge whether Trump’s presidency left the country better off. “You know, I’m not sure enough time has passed to start evaluating who made a difference and who didn’t,” he said.

He warned of what he views as a dangerous geopolitical moment. “I think this is the most dangerous period since before World War Two,” McConnell stated, drawing comparisons to the 1930s when isolationist policies and trade barriers destabilized international relations.

Referencing history, McConnell pointed to the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930. “There’s certain similarities right now to the ‘30s. Herbert Hoover signed the Smoot-Hawley tariff bill in 1930... America First... Sound familiar?” he remarked, in a veiled critique of Trump’s trade agenda.

Support for Ukraine and Biden’s Foreign Policy

Throughout the discussion, McConnell stressed his backing of U.S. assistance to Ukraine as it resists Russia’s invasion. He cautioned against the potential consequences of American disengagement, warning, “What we need to do is avoid the headline at the end of the war, ‘Russia wins, America loses.’”

He praised Biden’s foreign policy decisions in this area, drawing a sharp contrast with Trump’s America First approach. McConnell has repeatedly positioned himself in support of international alliances and argued that U.S. credibility is at stake in Ukraine.

These remarks highlighted his break from Trump-era policies, especially given the Republican Party’s ongoing internal debate over foreign intervention and defense spending priorities.

Ongoing Attacks and Political Criticism

Despite his defense of global engagement, McConnell has faced criticism at home. Former President Trump has accused him of financial entanglements with China through his wife, Elaine Chao, whose family runs a shipping business. Trump once wrote, “McConnell should spend more time (and money!) helping [Republican Senators] get elected, and less time helping his crazy wife and family get rich on China!”

Political opponents have also seized on his stance toward Trump. Nate Morris, one of his critics, said, “Both of my opponents continue to bend the knee to the man they call their ‘mentor’ and refuse to say a word about Mitch McConnell constantly attacking President Trump and his America First foreign policy and tariffs.”

These accusations underscore the tension McConnell faces as he distances himself from Trump’s legacy while maintaining influence in Republican politics.

McConnell’s Position in Kentucky Politics

Within his home state, McConnell’s relationships with political figures remain complex. He has maintained close ties with Dan Cameron, a former staffer who is now a candidate for higher office. At the same time, he has commented on the ambitions of Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear.

McConnell suggested Beshear may weigh a Senate bid as an alternative to pursuing the presidency. Speaking about the governor’s political future, McConnell noted, “He’s a gifted politician... And so, what the governor will have to decide: Is he more likely to get to be president... or to win a Senate seat where he’s shown he’s competitive?”

These remarks illustrate McConnell’s continued role as a strategist and mentor in Kentucky politics, even as he navigates controversies at the national level.

Unpopularity and Final Years in Office

Despite his stature as a longtime senator, McConnell faces significant disapproval among voters. Morning Consult polling shows him as the least popular U.S. senator, with 59 percent of respondents viewing him unfavorably.

This unpopularity adds to the challenges he confronts in his final term. Critics have questioned his longevity in office and whether his influence has diminished as Trump continues to dominate Republican discourse.

For McConnell, the remaining years appear focused on solidifying his foreign policy legacy, even as domestic divisions and personal controversies persist.