Why both parties are copying Trump's playbook | The Excerpt

Political insults aren't new, but they're becoming a central campaign strategy. Why are candidates in both parties betting on nicknames, personal attacks and viral moments? USA TODAY Senior Political Correspondent Arit John explains what makes these attacks stick, who campaigns are targeting and what voters should remember heading into the 2026 elections. Read more: Sign up for our newsletter for the day's top stories, from sports to movies to politics to world events: (Source: USA TODAY | Region: Washington D.C., USA)