Summer in Washington, a time when Congress is out of session, a time when things tend to

slow down a bit, a time when, traditionally, presidents try to take advantage of the

relative quiet to set an agenda and send a positive message in the media.

Yet, even according to some of President Trump's allies, the summer of 2019, didn't

quite work out that way.

The president faced a series of controversies and a faltering US economy.

Trump did have some wins, but ultimately it seems Trump fell short of setting a foundation

for his 2020 campaign.

Back in June, the post averaged seven polls to find Trump's approval rating at 43%.

In August, those same polls showed an average of 41%.

So as the White House ramps up for the fall, we're taking a look back to understand how

presidents usually approach the political opportunity of summer.

And what makes Trump's approach so different?

Plus, what might change when Congress comes back to Washington next week?

This is Kenne Doe that, a podcast that explores the powers and limitations of the American

presidency.

I'm Allison Michaels.

The post's White House reporter, Ashley Parker, and our White House bureau chief, Philip

Rucker wrote a story earlier this week on this very topic.

Their reporting reveals what some Trump advisors and allies characterized as a lost summer for

Trump, full of self-inflicted controversies and missed opportunities.

I sat down with Ashley to talk to her about her story and how summers tend to go in Washington

...