Trump to Pitch Economic Agenda in Georgia Ahead of Midterms

Rome, Georgia is preparing for a visit from former President Donald Trump on Thursday, February 19, 2026, as he continues to promote his economic agenda ahead of the November midterm elections. The visit comes at a pivotal moment for the city and the surrounding 14th Congressional District, which is currently holding a special election to replace former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.

Trump’s trip to Rome is framed by his administration as an opportunity to highlight economic successes and address concerns about affordability for working families. White House Press Secretary Karolina Leavitt stated that the President “will visit two local businesses and give a speech on his efforts to make life affordable for working people.” However, the visit also occurs against a backdrop of ongoing political maneuvering, as candidates vie for Greene’s vacated seat. The former congresswoman resigned earlier this year, following a period of increasing distance between herself and the former President, whom she once staunchly supported. Trump reportedly referred to Greene as “Marjorie ‘Traitor’ Greene” during a recent press briefing aboard Air Force One, signaling a clear break in their alliance.

Economic Focus Amidst Political Competition

The core message of Trump’s visit centers on the economy. He has consistently emphasized his administration’s role in fostering economic growth and addressing inflation, though recent polling data indicates that voters remain concerned about rising costs and the potential impact of tariffs. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in January 2026 that the national inflation rate stood at 3.1%, a slight decrease from the previous quarter, but still above the Federal Reserve’s target of 2%. Bureau of Labor Statistics

The choice of Rome, Georgia, as the location for this economic address is noteworthy. Mayor Jim Bojo expressed surprise at the repeated attention the city has received from the former President, noting that Trump has visited Rome three times in the past four to five years. “We’re a town of about 3,839,000 people and President Trump has been here three times in the last 4 or 5 years to this city and we don’t know why. We’re not asking why. We’re just glad that he’s making us part of his day,” Bojo said on Wednesday. The economic impact of the visit is expected to be positive for the local community, though the extent of that impact remains to be seen.

The Special Election and Trump’s Endorsement

The political dimension of Trump’s visit is significant. Early voting is currently underway in the special election for Georgia’s 14th Congressional District. A crowded field of 18 candidates is competing to succeed Greene in the solidly Republican district. Trump has already weighed in on the race, endorsing Clay Fuller, a former local district attorney. “They say whoever I endorse is going to win. But we have a lot of good candidates that want to seize her place,” Trump told reporters earlier this week. The endorsement is expected to give Fuller a significant boost in a race where name recognition and Trump’s backing are crucial factors.

Marjorie Taylor Greene’s departure from Congress created a vacancy in a district that has consistently favored Republican candidates. Greene, known for her conservative views and strong support for Trump, had become a prominent figure in the party before her resignation. Her falling out with the former President added another layer of complexity to the political landscape. The election is being closely watched as a bellwether of the Republican Party’s direction and the continued influence of Trump within the party.

Schedule of Events

According to his daily schedule, Trump is scheduled to tour a local factory at 3:30 p.m. EST on Thursday, February 19, 2026, followed by remarks on the economy at 4:00 p.m. EST. Tickets to attend the event are available online. WSB-TV He will depart for the White House after delivering his speech. Live coverage of the President’s visit will be available on Channel 2 Action News starting at 4:00 p.m. EST.

Broader Implications for the Midterm Elections

Trump’s visit to Georgia is part of a broader strategy to rally support for Republican candidates ahead of the November midterm elections. The midterm elections are widely expected to be closely contested, with control of Congress hanging in the balance. Trump’s ability to energize his base and attract voters will be a key factor in determining the outcome of the elections. The economic message he is delivering in Rome is intended to resonate with working-class voters who have been disproportionately affected by inflation and economic uncertainty.

The political climate in Georgia is particularly critical, as the state has become a battleground in recent elections. The 2020 presidential election saw a narrow victory for President Biden in Georgia, and the state’s two Senate seats were decided by runoff elections in 2021. Trump’s visit is an attempt to regain ground in a state that has become increasingly competitive. The outcome of the special election in the 14th Congressional District will provide an early indication of the political mood in Georgia and the potential for Republican gains in the midterm elections.

Key Takeaways

• Former President Trump is visiting Rome, Georgia, to promote his economic agenda.
• The visit coincides with a special election to replace former Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene.
• Trump has endorsed Clay Fuller in the special election.
• The midterm elections are expected to be closely contested, and Georgia is a key battleground state.

The former President’s remarks are expected to focus on his administration’s efforts to create jobs, lower taxes, and reduce regulations. He is also likely to criticize the current administration’s economic policies and argue that they are contributing to inflation and economic hardship. The visit is a significant event for Rome, Georgia, and for the broader political landscape, as it underscores the continued influence of Donald Trump and the importance of economic issues in the upcoming midterm elections. The next key date to watch is the special election in Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, with results expected in the coming weeks.

What are your thoughts on the former President’s visit and its potential impact on the midterm elections? Share your comments below and join the conversation.