Trump brings Rubio to rally as Republicans seek campaign boost

Donald Trump brought Secretary of State Marco Rubio on stage at a rally in Corpus Christi, praising his popularity as Republicans face a challenging midterm outlook. The appearance has renewed calls for Rubio to campaign for Republican candidates, who see him as a strong messenger able to appeal across parts of the party’s coalition.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted from 22 to 26 October found 32 per cent approved of Trump’s performance and 66 per cent disapproved; likely voters favoured Democrats on the congressional ballot by 53 per cent to 44 per cent. Rubio had not expected to appear and the White House said he was travelling as national security adviser, while also highlighting Venezuela policy. A New York Times/Siena University poll from 12 to 19 October put JD Vance ahead of Rubio among Republican voters choosing a 2028 nominee, 33 per cent to 23 per cent.