Trump campaigns in North Carolina

President Trump is stumping for Senate candidate Michael Whatley in a race that could decide control of Congress.

A typically safe seat at risk

North Carolina hasn't elected a Democrat to the Senate since 2008, and Trump won the state in the past three presidential elections.

Whatley trails Cooper in polls

The former RNC chair continues to lag behind former Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat elected statewide in North Carolina six times.

Economic pain dominates the race

Rising prices from the gas pump to the grocery store are hitting North Carolina hard, and Whatley could bear the brunt at the ballot box.

“The No. 1 thing people are talking about is what they just spent, whether that's at the gas station or at the grocery store or at a restaurant.”

A referendum on the economy

Most voters will consider the cost of living when deciding who to vote for, not just Trump himself.

“I don't think it's going to be a referendum on Trump, as it is a referendum on the economy, and what Trump might have wrought.”

Cooper's 'Make Stuff Cost Less' tour

Democrats are tying Whatley to rising prices during Trump's second term. Cooper is campaigning on affordability across the state.

Who gets blamed for high prices

Republicans blame Biden-era policies, but experts note the president in power gets the credit or blame on the economy.

Trump's turnout power questioned

Trump historically drives turnout, but only when he's on the ballot. There's a drop-off when it's not him running.

“So I'm asking you to pretend that I'm on the ballot. I'm on the ballot.”

Gastonia event in Trump country

The rally is in Gaston County, where Trump defeated Kamala Harris by more than 20 points in 2024.

“No one fires up Republicans to get out and vote like President Trump does and his visit is an important part of turning out Republicans to the polls this November.”