Trump heads to New York to show support for Rep. Mike Lawler
AP News • • nation
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump campaigned in a competitive New York congressional district, focusing on promoting Republican tax cuts, particularly the expanded state and local tax (SALT) deduction critical to high-tax states like New York.
- Trump deviated from his economic message with remarks on voter ID, crime, transgender athletes, and criticism of Democrats, whom he dubbed “Dumocrats,” while emphasizing his administration’s tax policies.
- Trump appeared alongside Republican Rep. Mike Lawler, who supports Trump and is seeking reelection in a district that voted for a Democratic presidential candidate, highlighting Lawler’s role in expanding the SALT deduction.
- Despite Trump’s low national economic approval ratings, his endorsement and appearance aim to energize Republican voters in a closely watched House race, with Democrats criticizing the visit as out of touch with local economic concerns.
- The Democratic primary to challenge Lawler is scheduled for June 23, with five candidates competing, while Republicans view Trump’s involvement as a boost to their chances in the district.