President Donald Trump has cancelled a planned golf trip and will instead return to Washington, DC for just 85 minutes to attend a campaign fundraiser at his hotel on Friday. The decision comes amid heightened tensions with Iran, though the White House has not directly linked the schedule change to the situation.
Trump began his day in Florida at his Trump National Doral Miami, where he hosted a 'Latinos for Trump' roundtable. He then travelled to Atlanta, Georgia, for remarks on 'Black Economic Empowerment' before flying back to DC for the fundraiser at his Pennsylvania Avenue hotel. After the brief stop, he is scheduled to head to Newport News, Virginia, for a 9pm rally.
The president's itinerary includes visits to three swing states: Florida, Georgia, and Virginia. In Florida, he told the crowd he was 'thrilled to be back in Doral' and attacked Democratic rival Joe Biden, accusing him of 'selling out the Hispanic American community' by offshoring jobs. Trump also referred to himself as a 'wall' between the American dream and 'chaos'.
Trump predicted he would win the 2020 election, citing polls, though national averages show Biden with a 6.6-point lead. In Florida, the race is extremely tight, with Biden holding a 1.3-point edge according to Real Clear Politics. The president also called the Russia investigation a 'coup', comparing it to events in 'certain South American countries'.
The schedule gives Trump time for dinner in DC before the Virginia rally. The event in Newport News is close to the North Carolina media market, potentially benefiting the president there. Trump has held large rallies despite the pandemic, mocking Biden's lighter schedule, which includes virtual events and debate preparation. Biden's campaign has emphasised caution due to the coronavirus.
