Trump Urges Supporters: 'Pretend I'm on the Ballot' for Midterms

President Donald Trump urged Republican voters to pretend, please, that I’m on the ballot for the upcoming midterm elections.

Speaking at a rally in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, on Friday, Trump asked supporters to turn out for Senate candidate Darline Graham Nordone (R-SC) in her special primary runoff next week. He acknowledged the challenge of translating his coalition's enthusiasm to elections where he is not a candidate, stating, "Trump does great when he’s on the ballot, but when he’s not on the ballot, his people don’t come."

Trump later broadened his message, telling supporters, "I am on the ballot. We’re all on the ballot. Our country’s on the ballot. You have to get out." This appeal follows six of Trump’s endorsed candidates failing to earn the Republican nomination this month, adding to three earlier losses this year. Some supporters at the rally expressed reservations about Darline Graham after a recent debate performance.

Republicans lost control of the House during Trump’s first midterm election in 2018. During his remarks, Trump also discussed a ballroom he is building, stated the war with Iran is a success, and insisted his economy is strong. He also expressed concern about being impeached.