Trump Says He Has More Power in Second Term, Rallies for Midterms

Former President Donald Trump asserted on Saturday that he possesses greater power in a potential second White House term, stating, "I can do stuff that is unbelievable." He made these remarks at a rally in Highland Heights, Kentucky, aimed at energizing Republican voters ahead of the midterm elections.

Trump referenced his administration's decision to rename the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, suggesting such an action would have been impossible during his first term. "I don’t think I could have done this in my first term. This is a much more powerful term," he said, adding, "Google wouldn’t have taken my call in the first. Now, they kiss my ass."

His comments on power come as voters express frustration with his past actions, including tariffs and the Iran war, which have been linked to rising prices. Some Americans perceive the president as prioritizing his own interests over those of the nation.

With control of Congress at stake, Trump encouraged voters to "pretend that I’m on the ballot." However, Republicans privately acknowledge concerns that declining approval of his administration could be a liability.

During his remarks, Trump touched on economic issues, claiming the war with Iran would conclude soon and gas prices would decrease. He also reiterated a promise that if Republicans win control of the House and Senate, every adult American would receive $5,000, a plan that would likely incur significant costs and require congressional approval.

Trump also pledged that if Republicans are victorious, the Department of Defense would invest in revitalizing a drug manufacturing facility in Kentucky. He appeared on stage with Ed Gallrein, the Republican candidate for the U.S. House district, whom Trump had supported in the GOP primary against Rep. Thomas Massie.

Massie had reportedly aggravated Trump by advocating for the release of Jeffrey Epstein files and opposing the Iran war. Despite Trump's criticism of Massie as a "jerk" and "loser," the rally crowd showed mixed reactions, with about half applauding Trump's remarks about Gallrein and the other half remaining silent.