President Donald Trump says his rallies are saving the Republican Party in US midterm elections

In the United States, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, many Republican candidates are distancing themselves from President Donald Trump. A Reuters analysis found that two-thirds of candidates in key races are breaking with him on policy or minimizing ties. Trump's approval rating is at a career low of 32 percent, and candidates are seeking to appeal to independent voters. Policy disputes have emerged in 23 races, and candidates have removed endorsements and declined joint appearances. Trump has claimed his rallies are saving the party, but polls suggest his convention backfired, as Democrats gained in the generic ballot. Trump has visited only a few battleground areas despite promising to go to all 35.