Trump leans on Islamophobia and conspiracy in last-ditch campaign rallies
Attacks at two rallies
At events in Iowa and Kansas, Trump targeted Muslim politicians Abdul El-Sayed and Ilhan Omar. He joked about El-Sayed and a metal detector, prompting laughter from the crowd.
Trump also repeated an unsupported claim that Omar had married her brother and had children with him. He made the allegation at both rallies.
Effort to turn out voters
Trump repeatedly called on supporters to vote, urging them to “pretend I’m on the ballot,” as he sought to energize Republicans before the midterms. The elections will decide which party controls Congress during the last two years of Trump’s presidency. Polling suggested Republicans could face a difficult result.
Issues and state races
The speeches also covered the US-Israel war on Iran, living costs, immigration, alleged media bias against Trump and the administration of former President Joe Biden. Although Republican lawmakers represent most of Iowa and Kansas, polling indicated Democrats might flip both states. Iowa’s Senate contest was too close to call, while two state representative seats were leaning Democratic.
Key points
- Trump attacked Abdul El-Sayed and Ilhan Omar at rallies in Iowa and Kansas.
- He urged supporters to vote in midterms that will determine control of Congress.
- Polling showed possible Democratic gains in both states, including a close Iowa Senate race.