Trump used a Fox News interview on US election day to boast about his popularity in Israel, a move critics say exposes how far his priorities have drifted from American voters.

• Trump claimed a near-100% approval rating in Israel and joked he might become its prime minister if Americans tire of him.
• Critics argue his Israel-first stance has fueled US military and financial commitments abroad while costs at home keep rising, which helps explain why he's unpopular domestically even as he's beloved in Israel.
• On the same day, he suggested cutting aid to Israel, then quickly walked it back, saying he'd only raised the idea after getting clearance from Israeli leadership.
• Commentator Mark Levin, defending the administration, admitted frustration that voters feel promises on ending Middle East wars and lowering costs went unmet, undercutting his own earlier defense of the approach.

Outlook: With midterm elections underway and signs of Republican losses in Congress, discontent over foreign policy spending and its effect on affordability is likely to remain a political liability for Trump's party.