Trump Rallies in Texas as Republicans Face Tight Midterm Races

U.S. President Donald Trump returned to Texas on Wednesday for his third visit in a month, campaigning for Republican candidates facing unexpectedly competitive races ahead of the November 3 midterm elections.

Speaking at a packed rally in San Antonio, Trump endorsed Republican Senate candidate Ken Paxton, who is battling Democrat James Talarico in a closely watched contest that could determine whether Republicans maintain control of the Senate.

Trump praised Paxton's loyalty, emphasizing his decision to support the candidate over incumbent Republican Senator John Cornyn during the party's primary.

"He was with us all the way," Trump told supporters, calling Paxton a strong Republican leader.

Paxton thanked Trump for his support and expressed confidence in winning the Texas Senate race.

The rally comes as Republicans face growing political challenges over rising living costs and the ongoing Iran war. A Reuters/Ipsos poll released this week showed Trump's approval rating at 32%, while Democrats led Republicans 44% to 37% among registered voters.

Despite Trump's decisive 14-point victory in Texas during the 2024 presidential election, recent polling suggests Republicans could lose ground in the traditionally conservative state.

An October 3 New York Times/Siena College survey showed Talarico leading Paxton 51% to 45% among likely voters.

Trump's campaign efforts extend beyond Texas, with recent appearances in Oklahoma, Alabama, Ohio and Nebraska. Vice President JD Vance has also campaigned in Alaska as Republicans attempt to protect their congressional majorities.

However, Trump's relationship with Paxton has occasionally appeared strained. The president recently described his longtime ally as difficult, while reports suggested Paxton privately questioned whether a Republican convention in Dallas improved candidates' polling numbers.

Political analysts warn that Trump's involvement could energize Republican voters while motivating Democratic opposition.

University of Houston political scientist Brandon Rottinghaus described Trump's campaign appearances as a political dilemma, noting that his presence could attract supporters and alienate undecided voters.

Republicans also face challenges among Hispanic voters, a crucial demographic in Texas. The latest Reuters/Ipsos survey found Trump's approval among Hispanic voters at just 24%.

With Democrats gaining momentum in several Republican-leaning states, Trump's Texas campaign underscores the increasingly high stakes of the 2026 midterm elections and the battle for control of Congress.