President Donald Trump announced his commitment to actively campaigning for Republican candidates in 35 critical races this fall ahead of the November midterm elections. During a White House dinner event with GOP members of Congress, Trump expressed his intent to dedicate the final 30 days, or possibly more, to support these candidates. He emphasized visiting each of the 35 locations to bolster Republican efforts in the elections.
Trump outlined his campaign plans, highlighting notable races he plans to support, such as Senator Dan Sullivan’s re-election bid in Alaska. Trump poked fun at one of Sullivan’s competitors who shares the same name, Dan Sullivan, a retired teacher. He also stated plans to visit Texas to support state Attorney General Ken Paxton, who is competing against Democrat James Talarico for a Senate seat.
The dinner event in the Rose Garden at the White House saw attendance from several Republicans facing competitive races, including Representatives Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin, Tom Barrett of Michigan, and Mike Collins of Georgia. Trump was clear that he would focus on helping candidates in tight races rather than those with secure victories. “If you’re leading by 40 points and you’ve been there for 25 years,” Trump remarked, “please don’t ask me to come to your area and make a speech.”
Although Trump stated earlier in the day to reporters that he isn’t directly affected by the midterm elections, he still pledged his support for the Republican Party. “I’m not affected by the election,” he said in the Oval Office. “No. 1, I’m not running. My party’s running, and I’m going to help my party.” Two weeks prior, Trump delivered a different message to supporters, urging them to “pretend” he is on the ballot when voting in the midterms.
Trump’s campaign efforts are bolstered by his super PAC, MAGA Inc., which boasts over $400 million according to recent campaign finance reports. Republican candidates in close races hope some of this financial support will be directed toward their campaigns.
