A former aide to President Donald Trump has delivered a scathing assessment of the current state of his political career, likening him to a “washed-up” version of the late musical legend Elvis Presley during his tumultuous final years.

In a revealing op-ed for MS NOW, Matthew Bartlett, who served in Trump’s State Department before resigning following the Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021, paints a grim picture of Trump as he faces looming midterm elections this Tuesday. He argues that the former president is now entering what he calls his “Fat Elvis” era.

“After a decade of Donald Trump on the political scene, he is entering his ‘Fat Elvis’ phase: tired, old, overweight, awful-sounding, embarrassing-looking,” Bartlett wrote, directly referencing the infamous final chapter of Elvis’s career marked by decline and disillusionment.

The analogy reflects concerns not just about Trump’s physical state but also about his dwindling political clout. Bartlett noted that even within Trump’s own supporter base, doubt is creeping in. “There are suspicious minds even among the MAGA base,” he pointed out, suggesting that many are becoming disenchanted with the rhetoric and performance of the president.

As Trump’s political future appears increasingly precarious, Bartlett argued that his presidency is failing to resonate amid changing times. “A presidency in decline is no way to run a country, much less a midterm election campaign,” he cautioned, highlighting Trump’s lack of significant achievements or coherent plans to rally voters.

Bartlett elaborated that the promises from Trump have transformed into “Santa-like” declarations of fresh business openings and financial windfalls, predictions voters are likely to see as far-fetched in 2026.

He predicts that the next two years could be “politically torturous” for Trump as Democratic majorities may gain traction in Congress during the midterms. This shift could complicate any efforts from the White House to advance its agenda.

Furthermore, Bartlett anticipates that Trump may become increasingly erratic, likening his behavior to a cornered animal. “When the going gets tough for Trump, he tends to get much worse,” Bartlett stated.

The former aide envisions a scenario in which Trump resorts to “bogus prosecutions,” engaging in disputes with allies, and even cozying up to dictators—mirroring behavior that has characterized his political style to this point.

According to Bartlett, the midterms not only represent a potential turning point for Trump but also for the entire nation. “The next two years will give rise to what is next for America,” he suggested, hinting at a broader reckoning in American politics.

Despite his criticisms, Bartlett acknowledges that Trump will remain in power for now, wielding the ability to influence and disrupt the political landscape. This prospect raises critical questions about governance and stability during a tumultuous era.

Looking toward the future, Bartlett conveys a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism. While Trump’s twilight may herald political chaos, it also presents an opportunity for the American populace to “define and maybe defy the future.”

The narrative surrounding Trump continues to evolve, shaped by electoral outcomes and societal shifts. As the midterm elections draw near, eyes are keenly focused on how Trump’s turbulent presidency will be assessed by voters.

Bartlett’s commentary adds fuel to the ongoing debate over Trump’s legacy, reiterating that his standing is increasingly precarious as public faith wanes. With every election, there are whispers of a changing electorate ready for new leadership.

As history shows, political figures can rise and fall swiftly, and Trump’s fate seems tethered to the choices of the American people in the months ahead. The decision on whether to continue backing the controversial president may soon rest firmly in their hands.

As Americans prepare to cast their votes, the implications for Trump’s presidency and broader political dynamics will undoubtedly be crucial. Many are left wondering whether this election will mark the beginning of the end for a once-dominant political figure.

Ultimately, the upcoming midterms will serve not only as a referendum on Trump but also as a defining moment for the nation, prompting voters to confront the tumultuous state of their political landscape.

As President Trump navigates this challenging chapter, the interplay of political power, personal ambition, and public sentiment will determine the trajectory of his administration and the fate of his legacy.