WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump plans to campaign aggressively on behalf of Republican candidates over the next six weeks, holding as many as eight rallies and 16 fundraisers by the end of September.
Trump is likely to visit states that are crucial to Republican hopes for retaining control of the U.S. Senate, including Missouri, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, and Tennessee, according to a person familiar with the president’s plans.
Democrats need to gain two seats in November’s congressional elections to claim control of the Senate and 23 seats to lock in a majority in the House of Representatives.
The president held a rally on Aug. 21 in Charleston, West Virginia, on behalf of Senate candidate Patrick Morrisey, who is trying to unseat Democratic incumbent Senator Joe Manchin. He plans to visit Ohio on Aug. 24 in support of Senate candidate Jim Renacci, who is running against Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown.
As has been the case in campaign events over the summer, most states where Trump plans to campaign are considered to be friendly territory, where he can energize the supporters who helped him win the 2016 presidential race. Trump’s political operation has estimated that one-third of those attending Trump’s rallies aren’t traditional Republicans.
Trump has tended to avoid areas where he is less popular. However, the president’s campaign schedule after September might include more hotly contested districts in suburban areas, home to moderate voters who haven’t warmed to the president, the person familiar with the plans said.
Beyond rallies, Trump hopes to use his fundraising power to aid Republican candidates in tight races. He has raised $227 million on behalf of the Republican National Committee this cycle, as well as $75 million on behalf of candidates directly.
