President Trump is set to visit Rocky Mount, North Carolina, this Friday. His visit follows a week of efforts by his administration to communicate economic improvement to the American public.
Economic Context of Trump’s North Carolina Visit
Trump addressed the nation on October 30, blaming the current economic challenges on the policies of former President Joe Biden. Earlier in the month, Trump appeared in Pennsylvania, echoing similar sentiments. He claims his administration is on the brink of an economic turnaround.
Recent polling indicates mixed sentiments among voters regarding Trump’s economic management. A NPR/PBS News/Marist poll reveals that only 36% of respondents approve of his economic efforts, the lowest recorded in six years. Moreover, many voters in North Carolina, a state Trump has won in the past three presidential elections, show declining support.
North Carolina Voter Sentiments
- 60% disapprove of Trump’s handling of inflation.
- 52% disapprove of his tariff policies.
Despite these figures, some local residents still support Trump. HVAC technician Ronnie Peede, who voted for Trump in 2024, believes the president aims to encourage employment. Peede noted that while HVAC prices initially rose due to tariffs, they have recently stabilized.
In contrast, Jonathan Sutton, a local barber and Democrat, expressed concerns over rising prices for equipment, attributing them to Trump’s tariffs, although he doesn’t solely blame the president for inflation. Sutton criticized Trump’s rhetoric as insensitive, mentioning specific comments he disagreed with.
Implications for Upcoming Elections
Trump’s Rocky Mount visit comes just as North Carolina’s filing period for the 2026 elections closes. The state anticipates competitive races in the U.S. House and Senate.
2026 U.S. Senate Race Overview
North Carolina is poised to host a highly competitive U.S. Senate race. The state has an almost even split between Democratic and Republican registrants, and voters have previously shown an inclination to support candidates across party lines. Former Governor Roy Cooper is expected to run for the Democratic nomination.
On the Republican side, Trump has endorsed Michael Whatley, a former Republican National Committee chairman. Other candidates include Don Brown, a former U.S. Navy officer, and Michele Morrow, a previous state superintendent candidate, both vying for positions to the right of Whatley.
Redistricting Impact on Congressional Districts
North Carolina recently redrew its congressional district boundaries. This move aims to strengthen the Republican foothold in the 1st congressional district, where Rocky Mount is located. The changes affected ten counties, increasing the voter base of GOP-friendly individuals.
Since 1992, Black Democrats have held the 1st congressional seat, with Don Davis currently serving. The redistricting has faced legal challenges, with critics arguing it could undermine Black voter influence. However, courts have ruled the adjustments maintain the partisan balance rather than act on racial lines.
Future of Trump’s Influence in North Carolina
As of Thursday evening, four Republicans have entered the race in the newly outlined 1st congressional district. Trump has yet to make an endorsement but remains a significant influence within the party. Voter sentiments among local constituents like Peede reflect a careful consideration of candidates beyond simply party allegiance. His approach emphasizes evaluating candidates based on individual policies rather than solely on Trump’s endorsement.
