Republicans and Democrats alike don’t see Trump as out of contention yet. In GOP circles, there is a belief that there are concrete ways in which the president could turn things around.

The prescription Republicans put forth is fairly simple: Talk up the economy’s recovery from the depths of its coronavirus-related troubles. Corral back into the fold conservatives who might have personal misgivings about Trump by emphasizing his traditional GOP policy priorities. Put on a strong showing in the three presidential debates, the first of which takes place at the end of this month. And be disciplined.

Whether Trump can do those things is an entirely different question.

He has spent much of the past two weeks on defense over comments he made to veteran journalist and author Bob Woodward about the coronavirus, and separate remarks he is alleged to have made about veterans.

A shift toward the economy, in particular, could help his cause.