The White House is preparing to leverage President Donald Trump’s influence in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, with Chief of Staff Susie Wiles outlining a strategy that places the president at the forefront of the campaign. In a recent appearance on “The Mom VIEW,” a YouTube show by the conservative group Moms for America, Wiles suggested that Trump would be treated as a pivotal figure for the elections, akin to a presidential campaign.
Wiles explained that with Trump’s endorsements, potential voters are more likely to participate in local elections, arguing that his presence could significantly bolster Republican candidates. She cited recent Democratic wins in local races as evidence of the potential risks associated with not having Trump on the ballot. Wiles stated, “We’re actually going to turn that on its head and put him on the ballot,” indicating a shift from traditional midterm strategies that often minimize the role of federal officials.
The administration is keen on maintaining, if not expanding, its hold on Congress, aiming for more in-person appearances and substantial financial support to energize Republican campaigns. This includes strategies to influence redistricting in favor of conservative candidates and scrutinizing mail-in voting laws, which are generally more utilized by Democratic voters.
Despite the challenges ahead, including other significant national events like the Olympics and the FIFA World Cup, Trump’s backing could be crucial. While he has begun issuing endorsements via his Truth Social platform, concerns about his stamina and health persist. Trump, at 79, is the oldest individual to serve as president, and during his 2024 campaign, he exhibited signs of fatigue, raising questions about his ability to sustain a rigorous campaign schedule.
Health inquiries have been amplified by recent observations, such as bruising on his hands and swollen ankles, which Trump attributes to non-serious issues. Nonetheless, he maintains that he suffers from no major ailments, as he prepares to take on the dual responsibilities of campaigning and governing in what promises to be a critical election year.
As the 2026 midterms approach, the administration’s strategy reflects an acknowledgment of Trump’s continued sway over a significant portion of the Republican base, suggesting a calculated effort to harness that influence in an increasingly polarized political landscape.
