Trump's campaign trail presence contrasts with his absence from GOP ads.
Context
What happened: Donald Trump is campaigning for Republicans in the midterms, but GOP ads largely omit him, and some candidates are hesitant to appear with him.
Key numbers: Democratic candidates and outside groups spent $145 million on general election ads mentioning Trump, versus $8 million by Republicans, per a POLITICO analysis of AdImpact data.
Why it matters: Strategists cited in the content describe Trump as at historic lows and a strong headwind in states like Ohio, with some Republicans breaking with him on the Iran war and tariffs while still hoping he boosts MAGA base turnout.
What changed
Donald Trump is campaigning for Republicans in the midterms, but GOP ads largely omit him, and some candidates are hesitant to appear with him.
Why it matters
Strategists cited in the content describe Trump as at historic lows and a strong headwind in states like Ohio, with some Republicans breaking with him on the Iran war and tariffs while still hoping he boosts MAGA base turnout.
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Oct 19, 2026 11:10 AM ET