While Trump rallies in Syracuse, most GOP leaders say they have better things to do

Key Points:

• Most local Republican leaders and candidates in Onondaga County are avoiding President Trump's midterm rally in Syracuse, with only four out of 16 planning to attend, reflecting concerns about his political toxicity in the region.
• Top GOP figures such as Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon and District Attorney Bill Fitzpatrick cited personal commitments and strategic distancing from Trump, whose approval rating in New York stands at 34 percent.
• The local GOP is focusing on rebuilding its brand by emphasizing fiscal conservatism at the local level, aiming to move away from the national party's association with Trump after historic losses in the previous election.
• Democrats view Trump's visit as potentially damaging to local Republicans, anticipating it could energize Democratic turnout and contribute to another strong showing in the upcoming midterms.
• Some Republicans, including Syracuse Republican Committee Chair Kevin Ryan, believe Trump's rally will energize the GOP base and help candidates like Bruce Blakeman, though many others remain skeptical or indifferent about his influence on their campaigns.