Trump Revives 2020 ‘Rigged Election’ Claim at Iowa Rally Ahead of Midterms
Former US President Donald Trump has revived his debunked claim that the 2020 presidential election was “rigged,” campaigning for Republican candidates in Iowa as the crucial midterm elections loom.
Key Takeaways
- Trump repeated false claims of a “rigged” 2020 election at an Iowa rally.
- He campaigned for GOP candidates ahead of the November 8 midterms.
- The former president strongly hinted at a 2024 White House run.
- His focus on 2020 concerns some Republican leaders about alienating independent voters.
Rally in a Key Battleground State
Addressing a rally in Sioux City, Iowa, on Friday night, Trump accused Democrats of “cheating” in the last election. He is widely expected to run for president again in 2024.
“We had a rigged election. We had a rigged election in 2020. We’re going to have a rigged election in 2022, and we’re going to have a rigged election in 2024,” Trump told the crowd.
These claims of widespread voter fraud have been repeatedly rejected by courts, state election officials, and his own administration’s Department of Homeland Security.
Midterm Elections and GOP Strategy
The rally, held as early voting begins in many states, was seen as a show of strength. Trump seeks to maintain his grip on the Republican Party before the November 8 polls, which will determine control of Congress and dozens of governorships.
Republicans aim to win back the House and possibly the Senate, which would allow them to block President Joe Biden’s agenda and launch investigations.
Trump has endorsed dozens of GOP candidates nationwide, many of whom echo his election fraud claims.
2024 Plans and Party Concerns
Trump has ramped up his campaign schedule, holding rallies in battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona. He has been increasingly vocal about 2024, telling supporters he will “probably” run again.
His continued dominance of the GOP raises concerns among some party leaders. They worry his focus on 2020 could turn off independent voters and hurt midterm chances.
However, Trump remains popular with the Republican base, and his endorsements are highly sought after. The Iowa rally was his first in the state since 2020. He won Iowa by eight points in both 2016 and 2020.
