Trump to hold rallies in key swing state’s as Democrats see pre-midterm poll bump
Today, President Trump will fly to Ohio to lend his support to Troy Balderson, a Republican candidate in the special election to represent Ohio’s 12th congressional district.
The race began after former representative Pat Tiberi resigned mid-way through his term out of frustration with the political climate. Now, with the Tuesday election closing in fast, polls show the race to be nearly neck and neck. Balderson’s opponent, Democrat Danny O’Connor, is now only one point behind, up from ten points behind in June.
Trump’s involvement is likely a reflection of this quick come back, Republicans wary of losing yet another seat after having lost two others earlier this year. Indeed, Republicans have lost support in every special election since Mr Trump’s election in 2016.
With a Democrat having not represented Ohio for 30 years, an O’Connor win could indicate further Republican losses come November, significantly boosting the left’s momentum. Although it is not a significant dent in the net 23 seats Democrats need to take, look to Tuesday’s election as a bellwether, demonstrating the effectiveness of a Trump endorsement or offering further credence to proclaimed “Blue Wave”.
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