BULLHEAD CITY, Ariz. (AP) — President Donald Trump campaigned for Republicans on Wednesday in Bullhead City, Arizona, where he showcased the new Air Force One and defended accepting the aircraft from the Qatari royal family. Trump stated that he learned the Qataris had 'the best of all the 747s' and mentioned that he called the country's leader to borrow the jet before it was offered as a gift. He remarked, 'When you're given gifts, you take 'em, right?' and added, 'When they give you a 747 you say two words: 'thank you.''
Trump's visit is part of a campaign swing through the West aimed at rallying support for Republican candidates ahead of the November 3 elections, which will determine control of Congress. He has campaigned in Alaska and Ohio prior to his stop in Arizona and is scheduled to visit Montana next.
During the rally, Trump addressed the economic struggles in Mohave County, which has higher poverty and unemployment rates than the state and national averages. He also discussed various projects in Washington, including a ballroom renovation and a new helipad at the White House.
Trump criticized the media for not reporting on the country's progress and dismissed questions about affordability. He is in Arizona to support Rep. Andy Biggs, who is running against Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs. Biggs has been a strong ally of Trump and previously attempted to block the certification of the 2020 election results.
The rally took place in a county that Trump won with 78% of the vote in 2024. Despite this, recent polling indicates that Republicans are facing challenges in several battleground races, prompting a shift in campaign strategy as Democrats gain momentum.
In Montana, Trump is supporting Aaron Flint, a Republican candidate endorsed by both Trump and former Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke. Flint's opponent is Sam Forstag, a Democratic labor union leader.
Trump's campaign efforts come as Republicans aim to maintain their positions in Congress amid low approval ratings and rising costs affecting voters. The upcoming elections are critical for both parties as they seek to secure control in a divided political landscape.