President Trump rallies in South Carolina ahead of midterms

ROCK HILL, S.C. — President Donald Trump visited the Carolinas for a midterm rally with less than a week to go until Election Day.

Trump landed at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport just before noon Thursday. He then arrived at the Rock Hill Sports and Events Center just after 1 p.m., where he spoke to a crowd of supporters.

President Trump arrives in Charlotte President Donald Trump arrives at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport on Oct. 29, 2026 ahead of a midterm rally in Rock Hill, South Carolina.

The president rallied in support of Sen. Darline Graham and the Republican ticket in the Palmetto State. Trump has also held rallies across North Carolina in support of Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley, who is running against Democrat Roy Cooper.

Graham is trying to hold on to her seat after being appointed to replace her brother, Lindsey Graham, who died in July. She is facing Democratic candidate Dr. Annie Andrews. Recent polls indicate that the race is very close.

‘Pretend that I’m on the ballot’

In Rock Hill, Trump took the stage and told voters to act like he’s the one on the ballot. He’s hoping that message resonates with his base in the state -- more than 58% of voters in South Carolina backed Trump in the last presidential election.

“Pretend that I’m on the ballot,” Trump said. “When I’m on the ballot, more people show up.”

Other Republican heavy-hitters took the stage as well, including Gov. Henry McMaster and Rep. Russell Fry. All of them stressed the importance of this Senate race.

“Vote ... and bring 10 people to the polls; South Carolina is on the line,” Sen. Graham said.

Attorney General Alan Wilson, who’s running for governor in the state, pointed to the balance of power in Congress.

“Not voting for Darline Graham isn’t just not voting; you’re saying you’re OK with [Sen.] Chuck Schumer being the majority in the U.S. Senate. If we lose the majority, that’s what will happen,” Wilson said.

Trump finished the rally at about 2:45 p.m.

Andrews Campaign responds

In response to Trump’s visit to South Carolina, Dr. Annie Andrews said she would work with him on South Carolina issues if elected.

Andrews said: “President Trump is always welcome in South Carolina, and when I’m elected, I look forward to working with him whenever it’s in the best interest of South Carolinians. But Senator Graham should be using her access to President Trump to lower gas, diesel, and costs for South Carolinians — not just to win an election. The last time the president was here, Senator Graham promised to raise Russia sanctions with him, but she broke her word and failed to do her job. South Carolinians deserve a senator who fights for them, not just herself.”