The Charlie Kirk Show The Trump Team's Secret Midterm Strategy Session
Feb 18, 2026
Steve Hilton, British political commentator and former advisor now running for California governor. Conversation covers a secret midterm strategy shift to populist domestic themes. They discuss targeted media tactics and a surprising poll that could leave California choosing between two Republicans. Also touches on a major Potomac sewage spill and looming Iran conflict risks.
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Domestic Pivot Over Foreign Distraction
- Tony Fabrizio advised a domestic pivot focusing on economic issues like drug prices, homebuying, and banning congressional stock trading.
- Charlie Kirk and Blake argue these populist-focused items cut through to normie voters and stick in the brain.
Ban Trading Signals Anti‑Elite Message
- Banning congressional stock trading is framed as a populist anti-elite measure that resonates broadly.
- The measure signals accountability and taps into voters' anti-corruption hunger.
Prioritize Podcasts And Social Ads
- Spend earned media time on podcasts and social media rather than national broadcast news.
- Use targeted paid media on social apps, with Facebook still key for older "normie" voters.