Trump's midterm tour veers off his promised 35-race focus

Donald Trump said he would travel to all 35 of the nation’s most competitive races, but his recent schedule contradicts that claim. After visits to Alabama and Oklahoma, he is now heading to Syracuse, New York, to support Republican governor nominee Bruce Blakeman, who trails incumbent Kathy Hochul by 11 points according to a Marist poll that also shows Trump’s approval at 38% in the state. The poll indicates many New York voters would cast congressional ballots against Trump rather than for him.

Republicans argue the New York rally could energize their base, similar to earlier October events, while critics note the shift away from the promised focus on swing contests. Trump’s altered travel plan highlights the tension between his campaign rhetoric and the realities of the electoral map.