Trump Approval Slips Ahead of SOTU, Kouri Richins Husband Poisoning Trial Starts: AM Update 2/24 - The Megyn Kelly Show Recap
Podcast: The Megyn Kelly Show
Published: 2026-02-24
Duration: 19 minutes
Summary
President Trump faces declining approval ratings ahead of the State of the Union, while the trial of Kouri Richins, accused of poisoning her husband, begins with opening arguments.
What Happened
President Trump is preparing for a challenging State of the Union address as he grapples with his lowest approval ratings. A new CNN poll reveals only 36% of respondents approve of his job performance, with a notable drop in support among independents. Economic concerns dominate the issues that Americans want him to address, overshadowing other topics like immigration and healthcare.
The episode highlights President Trump's efforts to maintain his bond with angel families, hosting them at the White House to honor victims of crimes by illegal immigrants. This event underscores his administration's push for tougher immigration policies and mass deportations, aligning with his longstanding support for these families.
U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon has blocked the release of former Special Counsel Jack Smith's report concerning Trump's handling of classified documents. Judge Cannon argues that releasing the report would cause irreparable damage and violate justice principles since the case was dismissed without a guilty verdict.
The trial of Kouri Richins has commenced with opening statements, as she faces charges of poisoning her husband, Eric, with fentanyl. The prosecution alleges financial motives and infidelity, presenting evidence of life insurance policies and text messages with another man. The defense challenges the evidence, questioning how the fentanyl was ingested.
Eric Richins' sister testified, describing Kouri's unusual behavior on the night of Eric's death. The trial is gaining attention due to Kouri's children's book on coping with grief, published before her arrest. The trial is expected to continue through late March.
Several Democratic lawmakers, including Adam Schiff, plan to boycott the State of the Union address, citing disapproval of Trump's administration. Virginia Governor Abigail Spamberger is set to deliver the Democratic response, while Trump's guest list remains partially undisclosed, with the U.S. men's hockey team expected to attend.
Key Insights
- President Trump's approval rating has plummeted to 36%, with independents showing significant disapproval. This decline comes ahead of a challenging State of the Union address, where economic issues are expected to dominate the conversation.
- U.S. District Judge Aileen Cannon has halted the release of a report on Trump's handling of classified documents, citing potential irreparable damage and a violation of justice principles, as the case was dismissed without a guilty verdict.
- Kouri Richins is on trial for allegedly poisoning her husband, Eric, with fentanyl, driven by financial motives and alleged infidelity. The case is notable not only for the charges but also for Kouri's publication of a children's book on grief before her arrest.
- Several Democratic lawmakers, including Adam Schiff, are boycotting the State of the Union address in protest against Trump's administration. Meanwhile, Virginia Governor Abigail Spamberger is poised to deliver the Democratic response.
Key Questions Answered
What are President Trump's approval ratings ahead of the State of the Union 2026?
President Trump's approval ratings have fallen to 36% according to a CNN poll, with 63% disapproving of his job performance. The decline is particularly steep among independents.
What are the main allegations in the Kouri Richins poisoning trial?
Kouri Richins is accused of fatally poisoning her husband, Eric, with fentanyl. Prosecutors allege financial motives, including life insurance policies and debt, as well as infidelity, presenting text messages with another man as evidence.
Why did Judge Aileen Cannon block the release of Jack Smith's report?
Judge Aileen Cannon blocked the release of Jack Smith's report on the grounds that it would cause irreparable damage and violate fairness principles, as the case against President Trump was dismissed without a guilty verdict.