Georgia Governor Brian Kemp spoke at the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America on March 26, 2025, in Ellabell, Georgia. President Donald Trump and GOP leaders are strategizing their midterm campaign to maintain power in a challenging political landscape. They are reaching out to key candidates in crucial battleground House and Senate races, with a focus on rallying support around the divisive issue of impeachment to energize the MAGA base.
While Democratic leaders are hesitant about pursuing a third impeachment vote, the topic has gained significant traction within GOP circles. Trump is keen on avoiding another intense confrontation with a strengthened Democratic majority, while Republican leaders are banking on the impeachment talks to boost voter turnout in an election where Trump will not be on the ballot.
Midterm elections historically pose challenges for the party in power, and Democrats are optimistic about capitalizing on Trump’s dwindling approval ratings and concerns about an economic downturn due to his trade policies. They aim to secure a narrow House majority and a potential shot at winning control of the Senate, although flipping the Senate presents a tougher challenge.
Despite the odds, Trump is actively involved in efforts to defy historical trends, meeting with GOP leaders to strategize candidate selections and White House support for key races. He plans to provide endorsements and assist with fundraisers and rallies to bolster Republican chances in the midterms.
In the Senate, GOP leaders are making a concerted effort to recruit Governor Brian Kemp of Georgia for the 2026 election cycle. Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senator Tim Scott traveled to Atlanta to discuss a potential Senate run with Kemp and his wife. Kemp has sought advice from fellow senators and engaged in discussions with Trump about a potential Senate bid.
The GOP aims to field strong candidates, prioritizing quality over strict adherence to the MAGA agenda, in a bid to present a united front after internal divisions in previous elections.
Recent discussions have focused on the White House’s strategy of prioritizing winning and selecting candidates with the best chance of success. Despite concerns that Trump could be a liability for Republicans in the upcoming midterms, GOP leaders are planning to fully embrace him in a bid to avoid a repeat of their 2018 losses. The Republicans have an advantage in the House battleground, with only a few key seats likely to determine the majority. While some Republicans are worried about the impact of Trump’s policies and falling poll numbers, many believe they can retain control of Washington by energizing Trump’s base. House GOP campaign chief Rep. Richard Hudson emphasized the importance of Trump’s support in maintaining the House majority. However, swing-district Republicans are divided on whether to campaign with Trump, with Rep. Don Bacon of Nebraska even considering retirement. In Georgia, Gov. Kemp is being urged to run for Senate by top Republicans who see him as crucial to their midterm strategy. They believe Kemp could help secure a victory over Democratic Sen. Jon Ossoff and maintain the GOP’s Senate advantage. Efforts to persuade Kemp include phone calls from influential Republicans like former Senate GOP campaign chief Daines and former Nebraska governor Ricketts. Trump has also expressed support for Kemp, praising him for his role in winning Georgia in 2024. The Georgia Senate seat is considered a key target for Republicans, along with open seats in Michigan and New Hampshire.
Facing challenges in Maine and North Carolina, while navigating a contentious primary in Texas, Republicans are strategizing their approach to upcoming races. Amidst these deliberations, Rep. Buddy Carter and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene are considering their options, with Greene emphasizing the importance of prioritizing Trump’s agenda to secure victory in the midterms. Meanwhile, in Georgia, Sen. Ossoff’s impeachment comments have stirred controversy, prompting backlash from GOP groups. Despite calls for impeachment from some Democrats, party leadership remains cautious about pursuing this course of action. As the political landscape evolves, Ossoff remains steadfast in his stance, ready to face any challengers in the upcoming races.
Ain and Ileya Robinson-Williams were involved in the creation of this report. To access additional CNN news and newsletters, sign up for an account on CNN.com.
