Ohio Midterms campaigning intensified as Donald Trump rallied Republican supporters in Vandalia on Saturday. The president backed US Senator Jon Husted and gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy ahead of the November 3 elections.

Trump used strong language to attack Democrats and urged his supporters to vote. He predicted a major Republican victory despite signs that several races could be competitive.

“I think we’re going to have a big surprise,” Trump told the crowd, arguing that critics do not understand the political situation.

Warning over federal support

The president also linked Republican victories in Ohio to federal assistance for the state. He said Republican officials frequently contact him to seek federal funding.

Trump warned that his willingness to help could change if Democrats win key races. Referring to Democratic gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton, he said: “But I’m not going to help her.”

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During the speech, Trump repeatedly criticised Democrats and used profane language against the party. His remarks came as Republicans seek to defend their Senate majority in several competitive states.

Husted faces Sherrod Brown

Senator Jon Husted is facing former Democratic Senator Sherrod Brown in a closely watched Ohio Senate race. Trump is counting on his support to encourage Republican voters who might otherwise stay home during the midterms.

Husted also attacked Brown at the rally. He questioned what Brown had achieved during his long political career.

Brown’s campaign, meanwhile, criticised Husted’s positions on Iran and data centers. Campaign spokesperson Lauren Chou accused Husted of supporting tax policies that benefited companies building data centers in Ohio.

Rising prices remain an issue

Economic concerns are also shaping the Ohio campaign. Gasoline prices in the state have risen sharply over the past year, adding pressure on household budgets.

One voter, 19-year-old construction worker Jonathan Smith, displayed a sign asking where the promised lower gas prices were. He said rising fuel costs were making it harder to save for his wedding.

The concerns reflect a broader political challenge for Republicans. Reuters reported that cost-of-living pressures and higher energy prices have affected Trump’s standing ahead of the midterm elections.

Data centers divide Ohio voters

Data centers have emerged as another major issue in Ohio. Supporters argue that new facilities can bring investment and economic opportunities, while opponents have raised concerns about electricity demand and costs.

The issue has become particularly important in Husted’s Senate race. The US Senate recently blocked legislation aimed at addressing electricity costs associated with large power users, including data centers.

Trump has continued to support data center expansion. At the same time, some Ohio voters at the rally expressed reservations about the facilities.

The debate highlights the competing concerns facing Ohio voters as the November election approaches.