Trump heads to key battleground
President Donald Trump travels to Georgia on Thursday, putting focus on a state that could play a major role in the midterms. He plans to visit two local businesses in Rome, Georgia, and deliver remarks about lowering costs for working families.
According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the president will highlight his administration’s efforts to ease inflation and strengthen the economy. The visit comes as Republicans work to energize voters ahead of November.
Special election draws crowded field
Trump’s stop also lands in the middle of a high profile special election. Early voting is underway to replace former Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District. Greene, once a close Trump ally, stepped down earlier this year after a public split with the president.
Eighteen Republican candidates are competing for the seat in the solidly red district. Because of the large field, no one may secure more than 50 percent of the vote in the March 10 election. If that happens, the top two finishers will advance to an April 7 runoff.
Trump recently endorsed Clay Fuller, a former district attorney, in the race. Even so, he told reporters aboard Air Force One that several strong contenders are seeking his backing. He suggested that his endorsement could shape the outcome.
GOP strategy centers on the economy
Meanwhile, Trump’s Georgia appearance follows a strategy meeting in Washington. Senior political advisers met with Cabinet members to map out how to promote the administration’s record. The session, led by chief of staff Susie Wiles and deputy chief of staff James Blair, focused heavily on affordability.
Chief pollster Tony Fabrizio reportedly told the group that voters remain concerned about prices. As a result, the White House plans to stress its work on inflation, energy costs and job growth.
Republicans are defending slim majorities in Congress. Historically, the party in power often loses seats during midterms. In addition, recent polls show mixed approval ratings for Trump and continued frustration over the economy.
Democrats push back
At the same time, Democrats argue that many families still struggle with higher costs. The Democratic National Committee criticized Trump ahead of the visit, claiming that job losses and rising health care premiums have hurt Georgians.
Democrats point to recent special election wins as proof that their message on affordability is resonating. Still, Republicans believe Trump remains their strongest asset for motivating base voters who might otherwise skip midterm elections.
Last month, Joe Gruters, chair of the Republican National Committee, called Trump the party’s key advantage heading into November.
Georgia now becomes the latest stop in Trump’s campaign style push to keep Republican voters engaged and focused on the economy.
