German TV panel sees post-Trump era begin after Republican defeat

Following the Republican Party's historic midterm defeat, political experts on the German talk show "Illner" declared the beginning of the post-Trump era, citing Vice President JD Vance's immediate distancing from the president as a key signal of change within the party. The panel noted that Vance has begun his own campaign by blaming the Iran war for the losses, while rumors circulate that Secretary of State Marco Rubio may be preparing his resignation. Experts believe Trump's influence is eroding, and he may sacrifice Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth as a scapegoat for the election failure. Former US General Ben Hodges claimed Trump has been "bought" by Russian President Vladimir Putin, while journalist Souad Mekhennet warned against expecting unified pro-Ukraine policy from the victorious Democrats. Experts also expressed concern that Trump might side with Putin on Ukraine or focus on Iran to secure his historical legacy.