WASHINGTON — President Trump is campaigning aggressively across the country ahead of the midterm elections, often holding one or two rallies daily in red states where Republican candidates face significant political headwinds.
The stated goal is to bolster those candidates. But Trump has made the elections about himself, repeatedly telling rally-goers to "pretend I'm on the ballot 'cause in a way, I am on the ballot." He argues that opponents seek to undo "all of the tremendous things we've done," citing tax cuts and border policy.
Attendees travel extensively to these events. Blake Marnell from San Diego, known for wearing a custom "Brick Suit" referencing Trump's border wall promise, was first in line at a recent rally in Greenville, North Carolina. Trump has recognized him publicly as "Mr. Wall," one of his "Front Row Joes." Marnell expressed certainty that Trump will continue holding rallies before 2028, even though Trump will not appear on that ballot.
Trump's speeches blend familiar talking points with new material. He frequently calls tariffs "my favorite word," claiming they have "made us rich." At a Texas rally this week, he recounted a remark about Ohio Senator Jon Husted's physique, saying he "made the mistake of saying that I started off by studying his ass." Trump claimed the comment boosted Husted by 12 points. He then joked about applying a similar strategy to Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, saying, "Maybe I should do that with Ken Paxton, but I'm not sure your body is going to qualify."
How many Republican candidates will continue welcoming Trump's strategy of positioning himself as a main event after the midterms remains uncertain.
