Trump claims that Democrats want to import the “devastating fires” ravaging France, as his approval rating plummets

Donald Trump warned that the United States could experience the same violent unrest currently rocking France if the Democrats won the Nov. 3 midterm elections. Speaking at a Republican rally in Park City, Kansas, on October 19, Trump described France as having been “conquered, plundered, and reduced to ashes,” blaming migrants, jihadists, and communists for the destruction.

Trump directly accused the Democrats of wanting to replicate the violence that is rocking American cities. “When you see church steeples on fire and fires raging in France, just remember that this is exactly what radical Democrats want to do to America,” he told his supporters. He immediately added, “They fully intend to do it. But they won’t succeed.”

Trump also singled out European immigration policies, claiming that left-wing governments had allowed millions of migrants into countries whose cultural values they did not share. “That’s… what’s happening in France; they want that to happen in our country. It will never happen here,” he said. His accusations were not supported by any evidence suggesting that Democratic leaders support violence.

The unrest in France followed nationwide protests against the rising cost of living and the deterioration of education and public services. On October 17, an estimated 550,000 to 800,000 people took part in demonstrations across the country. While many gatherings remained peaceful, others escalated into violent clashes, with some groups attacking businesses, setting vehicles on fire, and clashing with law enforcement in major cities.

Authorities reported approximately 2,400 arrests following widespread violence that erupted in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, and other cities. Thousands of businesses were reportedly damaged or looted, while Limoges was the scene of one of the most destructive incidents, with its historic 19th-century city hall catching fire. The building sustained significant damage, including the partial collapse of its roof.

These disturbances have increased pressure on French President Emmanuel Macron, whose government has faced criticism over its handling of the protests. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez offered his resignation after acknowledging serious failures on the part of law enforcement, but Emmanuel Macron refused to accept it. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu subsequently imposed localized curfews, while authorities promised tougher measures against vandalism and looting.

Addressing the nation on October 18, Macron condemned the destruction while drawing a distinction between peaceful protesters and violent groups. “Those who looted will have to pay for the damage, and those who sought to overthrow the Republic will be held accountable,” he said. Macron also emphasized the legitimacy of the protesters’ demands regarding economic hardships and public services.

While Trump attributed the violence in France primarily to immigration and left-wing policies, the protests stemmed from broader economic and social discontent. French officials have attributed much of the damage to radical activists and opportunistic criminals. This distinction highlights the difference between the underlying causes of the unrest and the way Trump portrays France as a warning against the direction the Democrats are taking.

Trump’s warnings come as his political opponents accuse his administration of contributing to economic instability through tariffs, controversial budget priorities, and foreign policy decisions. His Democratic critics argue that rising consumer prices and the energy repercussions of the conflict involving Iran have undermined his promises to lower the cost of living and restore U.S. economic prosperity.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll released on October 19 revealed that Trump’s approval rating had fallen to 31 percent, the lowest level ever recorded by that polling firm during his two terms in office. About 66% of those surveyed disapproved of his performance. Rising gas prices and the ongoing financial struggles of American households have contributed to growing discontent, posing challenges for Republicans as the midterm elections approach.

The Reuters/Ipsos poll also revealed that Democrats led Republicans 47% to 35% among registered voters in terms of their voting intentions for Congress. Trump traveled to Kansas to support Republican Senator Roger Marshall, as his party sought to defend its majorities in Congress. His warnings about France therefore come at a time when voters are expressing growing dissatisfaction with the situation under his own administration.