Trump says Venezuela, rich in oil, could soon become part of America

Trump revisits Venezuela proposal

Trump told supporters in Texas that Venezuela could become prosperous, while promoting a tanker he claimed had capacity for one million barrels of oil. He again floated the possibility of an independent nation becoming a 51st state.

The rally came as Trump sought to draw attention to a past military operation in Venezuela. His remarks were delivered amid rising gas prices linked in the report to the war in Iran.

High-cost Texas Senate contest

Trump traveled to Texas to back Republican Ken Paxton in his Senate campaign against Democrat Talarico. Advertising spending in the contest has topped $563 million across the primary and general elections, according to AdImpact.

Musk attacked Talarico on X, calling him a “lunatic left” figure. Talarico, a former teacher and seminarian, said in Lubbock that his campaign would challenge billionaires and seek to win Texas.

Campaign trail and national stakes

Trump is making a final-week push to protect Republican strongholds from competitive Democratic candidates. In the past week, he visited Mississippi, Michigan, Georgia, Florida and Iowa, with more stops planned in Ohio, South Carolina, Florida, Kansas and Iowa.

Rubio travels with Trump

Marco Rubio, who serves as secretary of state and national security adviser, joined Trump on the campaign trip. An unnamed official said traveling together would give Rubio time to discuss a range of issues with the president.

Rubio has not said whether he will run for office, and his political activity has been limited since becoming secretary of state. Before leaving, he said it was an honor to work for the country and Trump.