Caitriona Perry, Sumi Somaskanda and Bernd Debusmann look at why President Trump — just back from China — is suddenly turning his attention to Cuba. The Department of Justice has indicted former Cuban president Raúl Castro, the CIA director has flown to Havana for the first time in modern memory, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio is making the case for action 90 miles off the US coast. But with polls showing Trump's worst approval ratings of either term, gas prices biting swing voters, and an expensive primary "revenge tour" targeting Republicans who crossed him, is the Cuba pivot the win the White House is hoping for — or another distraction from the issues that will decide the midterms?

Every weekend, The President’s Path explores the state of US politics - in Washington and beyond. We dig into the key issues shaping America and uncover what’s on the minds of those closest to power. You can contact us at: [email protected]