Sen. John Kennedy (R-LA) on Sunday called on President Donald Trump to prioritize affordability and Iran policy ahead of the November midterm elections, while also suggesting a ban on naming buildings after living politicians.
In an interview on CBS News’ Face the Nation, Kennedy emphasized the need for the president to address rising living costs and the ongoing conflict with Iran, framing both as critical to voters’ concerns. He also reiterated his stance that public funds should not be used for self-promotional purposes, including government-paid advertisements praising officials.
Kennedy’s Midterm Priorities: Cost of Living and Iran Strategy
Kennedy, who has been actively campaigning for Republican candidates in battleground states, stated that Americans are most worried about the cost of living as they prepare to vote. He argued that the president should focus on this issue to strengthen the GOP’s position in the midterms, which he described as a “close” race.
"When moms and dads lie down to sleep at night and can’t, they’re worried about the cost of living," Kennedy said. He added that while voters are also concerned about Iran, they are primarily focused on economic pressures. Kennedy suggested that Trump should either deliver a nationwide address on Iran or delegate the explanation to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Gen. Dan Caine, noting that the president "doesn’t take orders from me, he barely takes suggestions."
Kennedy largely defended the administration’s approach to Iran, calling the country a “sucking chest wound” and asserting that the world is safer with current sanctions and blockades. However, he acknowledged that the partial closure of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical oil shipping route—has contributed to higher fuel prices, creating economic strain for Americans.
Iran Policy: Sanctions, Diplomacy, and Escalation Risks
Kennedy’s comments followed reports that the Trump administration is considering renewed airstrikes in Iran after the midterms, though he stated he had not seen classified intelligence on the matter. He dismissed Iran’s recent proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restart talks as “not a serious offer.”
"We need to continue doing what we’re doing," Kennedy said, referring to the administration’s economic pressure campaign. He ruled out sending ground troops but left open the possibility of military escalation to secure the strait, warning that such a move would require a long-term commitment.
Kennedy’s remarks come amid growing Republican dissent on Iran policy, with some GOP candidates in competitive races calling for a swift end to the conflict to address voter concerns over gas and diesel prices. In the Senate, 14 votes have been held to object to the administration’s Iran strategy, with two passing.
Proposal to Ban Naming Buildings After Living Politicians
Separately, Kennedy raised the issue of publicly funded self-promotion, criticizing a recent U.S. government ad campaign praising Trump as “the toughest, most resilient person I ever met.” He argued that such spending sets a dangerous precedent and suggested a ban on naming federal buildings after living politicians to prevent conflicts of interest.
"I don’t believe public officials should spend public money on ads for themselves," Kennedy said, extending the principle to building naming conventions. His proposal could face opposition from lawmakers who have historically supported such honors for sitting officials.
Political Context: Midterms and GOP Messaging
Kennedy’s push for a focus on affordability aligns with broader Republican messaging ahead of the midterms, where economic concerns have overshadowed other issues in voter surveys. His call for clarity on Iran also reflects a delicate balancing act for the GOP, which must reconcile hawkish stances with voter fatigue over prolonged conflicts.
The senator’s remarks underscore the dueling priorities facing the Trump administration: economic relief for voters and maintaining a hardline stance on Iran, both of which could shape the outcome of the November elections.