Donald Trump used a rally in Rocky Mount, North Carolina, on Friday to promote his economic record ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. However, the speech frequently drifted into personal stories and improvised commentary.
Speaking for more than an hour, Trump highlighted cooling inflation, citing the latest Consumer Price Index showing inflation easing to 2.7%, and pointed to falling gasoline prices and efforts to lower prescription drug costs. Economists have cautioned that the data may be distorted by the recent government shutdown, a caveat Trump did not emphasise.
He also defended his tariff policies, saying new duties on imported furniture and other goods would help revive North Carolina’s manufacturing base. Trump argued that higher unemployment figures partly reflected federal job cuts, which he framed as reducing government waste rather than economic weakness.
Alongside economic themes, Trump returned to familiar political attacks, criticizing Democrats and singling out Roy Cooper, expected to run for the US Senate next year. He praised Republican Senate hopeful Michael Whatley and urged voters to back GOP candidates in what he described as crucial midterm races.
At several points, however, the president moved far from policy. While discussing past investigations, Trump described how Melania Trump organizes her clothing, including her underwear drawer, an anecdote offered to illustrate his view of what he sees as excessive government scrutiny. The story drew laughter from the crowd and briefly overshadowed the affordability message promoted by signs behind him reading “Lower Prices” and “Bigger Paychecks.”
Trump also reflected on his days in real estate, explaining how he evaluated furniture quality, chair arm designs, and even stitching color. He described himself as highly detail oriented, later joking that he has what he called “controlled neuroses,” which he said gives him energy.
The rally came as recent polls show Trump’s approval on the economy remains below 40%, with many voters still concerned about inflation and tariffs. Still, supporters in attendance said they believe his policies are improving conditions and protecting domestic jobs.
The event underscored Trump’s ongoing challenge as he heads into a politically sensitive year: keeping the focus on economic data and policy, while embracing a free flowing speaking style that often blends politics, personal anecdotes, and moments of unintended humor.
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