President Donald Trump held a campaign rally Wednesday evening in Gastonia, North Carolina, to support Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley in his race against Democrat Roy Cooper.

The event took place at the Gastonia Municipal Airport and marked one of many coming Trump rallies as part of the president's pledge to tour and stump for each Republican candidate running for seats in key swing states, which he announced at the Republican National Convention. Whatley, a former chairman of the Republican National Committee and the North Carolina Republican Party, is seeking the open Senate seat after Republican Sen. Thom Tillis opted not to seek reelection.

Trump praised Whatley as a strong leader who helped deliver victories in the state during previous elections. He highlighted Whatley's role in Republican successes and criticized Cooper's record as governor, particularly on crime and public safety issues.

Whatley has focused his campaign on Cooper's decisions regarding criminal justice, including the release of prisoners during the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent polling shows Cooper holding a lead in the race, with averages indicating an advantage of roughly 7 to 8 points for the Democrat.

The rally drew attention to key issues in the contest, including the economy, violent crime, and recovery efforts from Hurricane Helene. Trump noted his past electoral successes in North Carolina and expressed confidence in Whatley's ability to connect with voters on law-and-order priorities.

Whatley, who resides in Gaston County, accepted Trump's endorsement and has positioned his bid as aligned with the president's agenda. The November election will determine control of the Senate seat in a state that Trump carried in his three presidential campaigns.

The appearance underscores Republican investment in maintaining control of the seat amid a competitive midterm environment.