Former President Donald Trump is set to return to Pennsylvania for a campaign rally ahead of his hush money trial in New York. Notably absent from the event will be Dave McCormick, the expected Republican nominee for Senate in the state.
Trump has hesitated to endorse McCormick, who faces no primary opponents in the GOP race against Democratic incumbent Bob Casey. McCormick's campaign cited a prior family commitment for his absence from the rally.
Despite Trump endorsing candidates in other swing states, his reluctance to back McCormick has puzzled some allies. The two have a strained history dating back to McCormick's unsuccessful 2022 Senate bid against Mehmet Oz, whom Trump supported.
While McCormick has not sought Trump's endorsement this time, sources close to the former president believe he will eventually support McCormick. However, Trump's team faces the challenge of appealing to both his loyal base and moderate Republicans in Pennsylvania.
Trump's rally is expected to focus on key issues like the economy, inflation, and immigration, as well as his claims of election fraud. Recent polls show a tight race between Trump and Biden in Pennsylvania.
Biden is also planning a campaign swing through the state to highlight economic differences with Trump. The former president has been less active on the trail, opting for private fundraisers to close the financial gap with Democrats.
Trump's rally comes ahead of his hush money trial, where he faces legal challenges. Despite the trial looming, his campaign adviser indicated that the rally speech would not heavily touch on the legal proceedings.
Following the rally, Trump will head to New York City for trial preparations, marking a crucial period for his campaign as he navigates legal troubles alongside his presidential bid.
