Axios says President Donald Trump is escalating controversy and political risk in the final weeks before the U.S. midterm elections

Axios says President Donald Trump has entered the closing weeks before the U.S. midterm elections with a rapid succession of controversies, provocations and breaks with presidential convention.

The outlet pointed to a series of developments in the first half of October, including a federal search of Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar’s home, Trump’s statement that officials who leak sensitive military information “should be shot,” concessions to Russian President Vladimir Putin, disputes over taxpayer-funded political advertising and Justice Department action affecting election-related issues.

Axios also highlighted Trump’s $5,000 payment promise to adult Americans if Republicans retain control of Congress, a Justice Department antitrust investigation involving major television networks, and reporting on donors behind the White House ballroom project.

The White House rejected Axios’ framing. Spokesperson Allison Schuster said Trump had consistently followed through on campaign promises involving national security, the border, crime, elections and affordability, adding that “October is shaping up to be another incredible month.”

Axios argued that Trump is taking these political risks at a moment of growing vulnerability. A Fox News poll released this week put his approval rating at 36%, the lowest recorded in either of his presidencies, while his rating on inflation stood at 22%.

With the midterms approaching, Axios said Trump appears to be betting that the political instincts that have helped him survive previous controversies will continue to work despite declining public confidence.