Overview
- President Donald Trump travels to Rocky Mount on Friday to argue the economy is improving ahead of the 2026 midterm year.
- The official stop carries political stakes in a top Senate contest, with retiring Sen. Thom Tillis’ seat elevating Trump-aligned Michael Whatley, who is likely to face Democrat Roy Cooper.
- Polling remains negative on the economy, including a Fox News survey showing 72% view conditions poorly and a Reuters/Ipsos poll putting Trump’s economic approval at 33%.
- Rocky Mount reflects local strain, with unemployment at 5.1% year over year and a failed Natron Energy battery plant that state officials tied to undelivered federal support.
- Trump is doubling down on tariffs and farm relief, announcing $12 billion for farmers as the CBO projects his flagship legislation will add about $3.4 trillion to the deficit over 10 years.