Key facts
- President Donald Trump has begun a 32-day campaign tour in Texas and Oklahoma.
- The tour aims to support Republican candidates in the November 2026 midterm elections.
- Trump is campaigning with Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton in Texas.
- Rising gasoline and diesel prices present a challenge to Trump's economic message.
- Some Republican candidates in competitive races are distancing themselves from Trump.
President Donald Trump has commenced a 32-day campaign tour across several states, beginning in Texas and Oklahoma, to bolster Republican candidates ahead of the November 2026 midterm elections. The strategy focuses on strengthening turnout in traditionally conservative areas, with the Republican Party aiming to maintain its narrow congressional majorities.
In Texas, Trump is appearing alongside Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton, whom he had previously endorsed in the primary against incumbent Senator John Cornyn. During his visit, Trump is also highlighting his trade and tariff policies. However, rising gasoline and diesel prices are posing an economic challenge to his administration's messaging.
While some Republican candidates have welcomed Trump's campaign appearances, others in more competitive districts have sought to distance themselves from him, citing concerns over issues such as the Iran war and the energy demands of large data centers. The campaign stops are intended to energize the Republican base in states like Oklahoma and Alabama, with further appearances planned in other Republican-leaning states.