Trump reinstates rallies in turbulent end to midterm campaign

President Donald Trump declared on Friday that Republicans had a chance of success in the US midterm elections, despite a turbulent campaign. He reinstated two rallies in Kansas and Iowa after canceling them the previous day, a decision that raised concerns about his health and the state of the race. Trump told reporters in the Oval Office that he believed the party could do "very well" in the Nov 3 vote.

The 80-year-old president had canceled the events to hold virtual rallies, but Republican leaders in both states had urged him to return. Trump emphasized that he felt "perfect" and that Republicans were defending their Senate majority while Democrats sought to capture at least one chamber of Congress. However, Trump's dismal approval ratings and public dissent over the Iran war and the cost of living might impact Republican prospects.

The president's change of heart was likely motivated by questions about his energy levels, according to political strategist Mike Fahey. Both Kansas and Iowa voted for Trump comfortably in the 2024 elections, but have become unexpected battlegrounds for Republicans. In Kansas, Republican Senator Roger Marshall is battling Democrat Adam Hamilton, a race that has not been won by a Democrat since 1932.

In Iowa, Republican Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is competing against Democrat Josh Turek in a tight contest.