US President Donald Trump has continued his rallying efforts for Republican candidates in Ohio, expressing confidence in his party's chances in the upcoming midterm elections. At a rally in Vandalia, Ohio, Trump predicted a "big surprise" in the elections, claiming his Democratic opponents are unaware of the current political landscape. He emphasized the importance of voter turnout, urging supporters to "get out and vote" to ensure a Republican victory.
Trump's visit to Ohio comes as multiple incumbent Republican senators face tough competition, and his popularity has waned in recent months due to rising petrol prices and other economic concerns. Despite this, Trump remains optimistic about the midterms, believing Republicans will perform better than critics expect. He rallied for US Senator Jon Husted, gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, and other Republican candidates.
Husted, a Republican in a competitive Ohio race against Democrat Sherrod Brown, hopes Trump's presence will motivate supporters who might otherwise skip the midterm elections. Trump performed well in Ohio during the 2024 presidential election, garnering over 55 percent of the vote. However, economic concerns have since led to a decline in his approval ratings.
Ohio has been affected by Trump's trade policy with Canada, which has resulted in retaliatory Canadian tariffs impacting around $3 billion worth of Ohio exports, based on 2025 figures. Additionally, petrol prices in Ohio have increased by 35 percent over the past year, reaching an average of $4.16 per gallon, according to the American Automobile Association (AAA).
Despite these challenges, Trump remains committed to his rallying efforts, urging supporters to turn out and vote. He believes that if they do, Republicans will "win big." Trump's continued optimism about the midterms contrasts with polls suggesting Democrats may gain ground in the elections.
The US-Israel war on Iran has also contributed to the economic concerns affecting Trump's popularity. Rising petrol prices and other staple costs have persisted, impacting the president's approval ratings. Nevertheless, Trump remains defiant about his party's chances, predicting a strong showing in the midterms.
As the midterm elections approach, Trump's rallying efforts are expected to continue. His performance in Ohio will be closely watched, particularly in the competitive Senate race between Husted and Brown. The outcome of these elections may have significant implications for the balance of power in the US government.
Key points
- Trump predicts a "big surprise" in the midterm elections, despite polls suggesting Democrats may gain ground.
- Trump's popularity has waned in recent months due to rising petrol prices and other economic concerns.
- The outcome of the Ohio Senate race between Husted and Brown may have significant implications for the balance of power in the US government.
