By Sohaib Shams
President Donald Trump on Monday delivered an election-eve speech at the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, acknowledging historical trends against the president's party in midterm elections while claiming Republicans "gave this a very strong shot."
Historical trends and economic claims
Trump noted that historically the sitting president's party does not win midterms, regardless of performance. He touted economic achievements, saying personal incomes are highest in history and the poverty rate is at a record low, but warned that it will not matter if "people that hate our country win an election."
Attacks on Democratic candidates
Trump derided Democratic candidates, falsely labeling some as jihadists or Muslim Brotherhood members. He listed a radical agenda including open borders, tax hikes, gun confiscation, transgender policies, abolishing fossil fuels, and migrant voting.
Alaska Senate race mention
Trump referenced the Alaska Senate race, citing a New York Times report that Democrats recruited a candidate named Dan J. Sullivan to run against incumbent Dan Sullivan. Democrat Mary Peltola denied awareness of the scheme. Trump called it corrupt and fraudulent.
Iran strikes question
Asked if he would resume strikes on Iran after the election, Trump answered "No."
Campaign swing and Reflecting Pool focus
Trump closed a 28-rally, 25-day swing through 19 states, with final rallies in Kansas and Iowa. He spent much of the speech discussing the Reflecting Pool renovation, announcing its reopening after months of repairs. He highlighted other Washington projects: White House ballroom, helipad, golf course, and a triumphal arch. The pool had been closed since July due to coating and algae issues; the National Park Service extended the closure until Nov. 20. Trump previously accused individuals of vandalism; charges against former Olympic canoeist David Hearn were dropped by U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro's office in July.
