Trump tells voters ahead of midterms: 'Pretend I'm on the ballot'

A former president is urging voters to treat the upcoming election as a referendum on his leadership, arguing that his presence on the ballot historically boosts turnout and Republican success. Speaking to a Fox News host, the figure claimed that elections where he was a candidate saw higher participation and victories, while his absence led to lower voter engagement. The remarks come as political analysts debate whether his influence will shape this year’s midterm elections, where his name may not appear on the ballot. The statement underscores the ongoing debate over his impact on voter motivation and party dynamics.

President Trump again urged Americans on Wednesday to cast their vote as if he was “on the ballot” this November. “I see it all the time, that when Trump’s on the ballot, they win,” the president told Fox News’s Trey Gowdy. “When he’s out of the ballot, the people don’t go to vote, and I’m...