President Trump’s Oval Office remarks during a high-profile meeting with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele just revealed more than a foreign policy moment—they unveiled a glimpse into the GOP’s midterm messaging strategy. The focus? A return to common sense and a full-court press against the left’s most radical social positions, particularly on the issue of men competing in women’s sports.

The Monday meeting between Trump and Bukele showcased a strong alliance between two leaders unafraid to challenge progressive orthodoxy. Their friendly rapport was evident as they took questions on topics ranging from trade and MS-13 to cultural issues like transgender ideology and gender politics in sports.

But it was the media skirmish that set the tone. When CNN’s Kaitlan Collins pressed Bukele about returning MS-13 gang member Kilmar Abrego Garcia—who was mistakenly deported but accused of violent crimes—Bukele dismissed the question outright. “Preposterous,” he said, slamming any suggestion that his government would re-import a known violent offender. Attorney General Pam Bondi and Secretary of State Marco Rubio backed him up, exposing the absurdity of the media’s obsession with elevating criminals over citizen safety.

That exchange might’ve earned headlines, but Trump’s broader commentary was the real story. He emphasized that the guiding principle of his administration isn’t rigid ideology—it’s “common sense.” He told reporters, “We’re run by people with great common sense. It’s not liberal or conservative. It’s common sense.” Bukele agreed, drawing a line between his policies and the kind of woke lunacy sweeping across progressive-run nations.

Nothing illustrated this better than their shared condemnation of men in women’s sports. Bukele recounted how feminist activists in his country spent years demanding protections for women—only to now support laws that effectively erase those gains by letting biological males compete against females in athletic events. “That’s violence,” Bukele said bluntly. Trump echoed the sentiment, pointing to the wave of women’s sports records being crushed by male-born athletes. “That’s abuse of a woman,” he said.

Then Trump dropped a strategic bombshell. He admitted he’s intentionally holding back on the issue—for now. “I don’t like talking about it because I want to save it for just before the next election,” he said, revealing a deliberate play to corner Democrats when it matters most.

The tactic is smart: poll after poll shows that upwards of 80% of Americans oppose men competing in women’s sports. But if Trump ramps up the pressure too soon, Democrats will flip-flop in a calculated bid to preserve electoral viability—only to revert to their radical agenda once the votes are counted.

This isn’t just a federal issue—it’s already bleeding into state races. Take Virginia’s 2025 gubernatorial race. Lt. Governor Winsome Sears is mounting a strong challenge against Democrat Abigail Spanberger, a former congresswoman who voted against the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act. Spanberger also voiced support for “Trans Visibility Day,” signaling her loyalty to the progressive gender agenda over biological reality. If Sears harnesses parental outrage over unfair school policies—just as Glenn Youngkin did in 2021—this issue could tip the race in her favor.

Trump, meanwhile, has already codified his position with the Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports executive order. Unlike Democrats, his stance is consistent—and popular. He’s not just defending a culture war wedge issue. He’s defending girls’ rights, parental authority, and the integrity of women’s athletics.

The strategy going forward is clear: keep the message simple, rooted in common sense, and laser-focused on cultural flashpoints that the left can’t defend without alienating voters. With Trump leading the way and candidates like Sears echoing his stance, Republicans have a winning issue in 2025—and beyond.

Protect our daughters. Defend fairness. And stop the radical left from redefining reality. That’s a message voters are ready to hear.