President Donald Trump has made a forceful appeal to Republican supporters as he formally launched his campaign push for the 2026 midterm elections, warning that failing to secure control of Congress would have serious consequences for his agenda and the United States.
Speaking to a large crowd in Clive, Iowa, this week, Trump said losing both the House of Representatives and the Senate would undo key policy achievements, including tax cuts and immigration enforcement measures, and could lead to 'very bad things'.
He urged voters to back Republican candidates, according to NBC News, emphasising that maintaining GOP majorities was important to preserving his legislative priorities, even as national polling shows challenges ahead.
Midterm Stakes: Control of Congress
Trump said the November midterm elections are important for his administration and for the country's direction. Addressing supporters, he said that if Republicans do not hold onto both chambers of Congress 'you'll lose so many of the things that we're talking about, so many of the assets that we're talking about, so many of the tax cuts that we're talking about — and it would lead to very bad things'.
Trump was referring to legislative achievements, including tax provisions and economic reforms, which he argues could be reversed under Democratic control.
The president also explained that midterms historically pose challenges for the party in the White House, noting that even successful presidents often see their party lose seats. He stressed the importance of active campaigning and turnout among Republican voters to defy this trend and protect GOP majorities.
Policies Trump Championed in Early Midterm Rally
A significant portion of Trump's speech was devoted to his economic record.
He claimed that under his leadership, inflation had been reduced and investment in the United States had surged, asserting that the US economy was 'booming'. While critics argue that inflation and affordability remain major concerns for many Americans, Trump used these talking points to reinforce his argument that Republican stewardship delivers tangible benefits.
Trump also reiterated his administration's stance on border security, insisting that a Democratic‑controlled Congress could undermine current policies.
He presented border enforcement and immigration restrictions as key victories that 'must be protected' through Republican wins in November.
Early Midterm Rally: Why Start in Iowa?
Iowa is a strategically important state for Republican campaigns, making it a natural choice for Trump's early midterm push.
As a historically swing state, Iowa has seen voters shift between parties in past elections, giving it outsized influence despite its relatively small population. In addition, Iowa holds early caucuses in presidential election cycles, making it a political bellwether for national trends and voter sentiment.
By campaigning there, Trump can energise his core supporters and demonstrate strength to the media.
Economically, Iowa's mix of agriculture, manufacturing, and renewable energy makes it a microcosm of national policy issues, allowing Trump to promote policies such as ethanol subsidies and farm support directly to voters. Besides, high-profile appearances at local venues such as restaurants and town halls help him connect with constituents personally and convey grassroots enthusiasm.
GOP Loses in Polls
While Trump's rally message focused on GOP unity and Republican accomplishments, his campaign comes at a time of political tension over deadly ICE raids, the Greenland dispute, Maduro's capture, and other controversial moves.
Polls suggest some Republicans are uneasy with elements of the current agenda, particularly aggressive immigration tactics, which could affect voter enthusiasm and turnout.
Democrats, for their part, are positioning the midterms as a referendum on economic conditions and leadership, arguing that many voters still feel financial strain and are dissatisfied with the direction of national policy.
Senior Republicans have signalled that Trump will make weekly domestic appearances in key states as the midterm campaign continues, following a drop in the GOP's win prediction.
