The Voice News: President Trump’s team has launched an early and aggressive campaign to help Republicans retain control of the House of Representatives in the 2026 midterm elections. Their goal is to avoid a Democrat-led House that could investigate and potentially impeach Trump for a third time.
Why it matters:
Historically, the party of the sitting president struggles in midterm elections. Trump knows firsthand the consequences of losing House control, having been impeached twice during his presidency after Democrats won the House in 2018. Democrats have already signaled intentions to probe Trump’s actions, including allegations about government purges, market manipulation, insider trading, and receiving a $400 million jet from Qatar.
Trump’s five key steps:
- Prevent retirements:
Trump is encouraging vulnerable Republican incumbents in swing districts to stay in the House instead of seeking other offices. For example, he has endorsed New York Rep. Mike Lawler to run for reelection instead of governor and is concerned about Michigan Rep. Bill Huizenga’s potential Senate run. Incumbents typically have a better chance of winning, and open seats are costly to defend. - Spend heavily:
Trump has built a political network with over $500 million and is already spending on ad campaigns in key districts. His allies have launched multimillion-dollar advertisements to support vulnerable GOP incumbents and to bolster Trump-friendly candidates in districts where Republicans lost in 2024. - Block primary challengers:
Trump has endorsed several vulnerable Republican incumbents early to discourage primary opponents, which could divide the party and drain resources ahead of the general election. This coordinated effort involves key GOP leaders including House Speaker Mike Johnson. - Fundraise aggressively:
As the GOP’s top fundraiser, Trump recently headlined a dinner that raised over $35 million for House Republicans and plans to hold more events to boost campaign coffers before the midterms. - Recruit strong candidates:
Trump’s team and the National Republican Congressional Committee are actively recruiting candidates for open seats in swing districts. Trump’s endorsement is seen as crucial in persuading potential candidates to run and rallying party unity.