Trump Says Kansas, Iowa Don’t Need Him. Polls Show Otherwise

Last-minute cancellations of Donald Trump’s planned rallies in Kansas and Iowa have led to questions about the need for the president’s in-person presence. However, a recent poll shows that Republicans may not be as secure in those states as initially thought. The Republican National Committee announced that Trump’s scheduled appearances in the two states would be replaced with tele-rallies, as the party’s candidates appeared to be in a strong position.

President Trump himself expressed confidence in Republican Representative Ashley Hinson’s performance in Iowa, stating that she was “doing very well.” In Kansas, he noted that incumbent Republican Senator Roger Marshall was “doing very well.” Following the schedule changes, Trump clarified that reporters questioning the decision were “sick” of being asked about it and called a Reuters reporter a “dope,” “disgusting” and “way out of shape.”

Despite Trump’s presence, polling data indicates that Republicans may not have as much of an edge as previously suggested. In Iowa, Hinson holds a narrow lead of 0.5 to 1 point over Republican Representative Ashley Hinson, according to RealClearPolling and Decision Desk HQ. Recent election simulations from RacetotheWH also suggest that Hinson may be the favorite, while still being the favored candidate.

In Kansas, where Republican Senator Marshall is facing a challenge from Democrat Adam Hamilton, Democrats have a 2.6-point advantage according to RealClearPolling. The polling data from Washington Post/George Mason University also shows a close contest, with Hamilton leading by 10 points. With the control of the Senate hanging in the balance, the White House has placed faith in Trump’s in-person endorsements and his enduring appeal to certain groups to boost Republican turnout.

However, polling results have not clearly shown that Trump’s presence alongside candidates boosts their chances.