By Sohaib Shams
President Donald Trump announced Thursday he is canceling weekend rallies in Iowa and Kansas, opting instead to hold a series of telerallies as part of his midterm election blitz. The decision comes after Trump headlined 25 rallies over the past month, a schedule he acknowledged has not been “easy.”
Senate races rated toss-ups
Both states feature competitive Senate contests that could determine control of Congress. In Kansas, Republican Sen. Roger Marshall faces Democrat Adam Hamilton in a race that has become a toss-up amid voter concerns over costs linked to the war in Iran. Trump said he believes Marshall “is doing well” and that he did not feel the need to appear in person.
Health questions dismissed
After a reporter asked whether the Kansas cancellation was health-related, Trump responded sharply, insisting he felt “perfect” and criticizing the journalist’s appearance. The Iowa cancellation followed hours later.
GOP operatives wanted in-person events
Republican operatives in Iowa, where nearly all congressional races are competitive, said an in-person rally in Dubuque would have boosted turnout more than a telerally. However, they acknowledged the remote format would still help.
Expanded telerally plan
The Republican National Committee said the change aims to maximize Trump’s reach across the country. White House officials said the president plans to hold more than 20 telerallies by Election Day. Trump is still scheduled to appear in Daytona Beach, Florida, on Friday for Rep. Randy Fine and Sen. Ashley Moody.
