President Donald Trump plans a visit to California and Nevada, seeking to highlight contrasts with Democrats on issues such as the economy, border security, and crime. This trip comes as Republicans try to maintain control of Congress in the upcoming November elections. Elevated inflation and uncertainty have posed challenges for Trump when connecting with voters regarding the economy, despite often noting stock market gains and low unemployment rates.
During a Tuesday stop in the Los Angeles area, Trump is scheduled to speak at a Republican National Committee fundraising dinner at a golf club his family owns in Rancho Palos Verdes. The following day, in Las Vegas, he will address the economy at an event held at Red Rock casino. An AP-NORC poll from late July indicated that only 32% of U.S. adults approved of Trump’s economic management, while 69% described the economy as “poor.” Many respondents cited everyday essentials like groceries and gas as a “major” stress source. Trump’s overall approval rating stands at 33%, slightly lower than during his first term’s equivalent timeframe.
Amid his California visit, Trump is expected to criticize Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, considered a potential 2028 presidential candidate for his party. Newsom, a notable opponent, has clashed with Trump in the past. White House spokesperson Olivia Wales stated Trump’s intention to “contrast his commonsense agenda with the radical policies of Democrats like Gavin Newsom,” highlighting tax cuts, anti-fraud efforts in government programs, and initiatives on immigration and crime.
California was one of Trump’s initial domestic visits after resuming office in January 2025. He surveyed wildfire aftermaths, discussing cooperation with Newsom, despite their adversarial history. Subsequently, tensions resurfaced after news of National Guard and Marine deployments in Los Angeles during immigration raiding protests sparked by federal authorities. Newsom criticized Trump’s actions, asserting that “democracy is under assault.” Trump’s derogatory remarks and Newsom’s social media jabs continued, with Newsom calling Trump’s California visit a derisive fundraising trip in a press statement.
Neighboring Nevada, Trump’s Wednesday stop, contends with housing costs, high energy demands from AI data centers, and federal program cuts. Republican governor Joe Lombardo is challenged by Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford in a highly competitive race. The Nevada State Democratic Party has correlated Trump’s visit with Lombardo and increasing costs through billboard campaigns. Trump’s economic narratives include claims of a manufacturing resurgence and suggested advantages from income tax cuts. However, high interest rates, increased gas prices fueled by international conflict, tariffs, and national housing shortages have affected economic sentiment. His prior speeches, including one at a Michigan General Motors facility, have shifted from economic topics to political discussions involving his opponents and construction plans in the capital.