President Donald Trump hosted a rally in Daytona Beach, Florida, on Friday, less than four days before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, to support Republican candidates for governor and Senate in the state. The event featured endorsements for Rep. Byron Donalds and Sen. Ashley Moody, alongside announcements of additional federal disaster funding for Florida’s Panhandle.
Trump’s Rally Highlights GOP Candidates and Policy Announcements
Trump’s roughly 90-minute speech at the beachside venue included praise for Donalds and Moody, who spoke ahead of him. He urged attendees to vote Republican in the midterms, framing the election as pivotal for Florida’s future. “Ladies and gentlemen of Florida, the golden age of America is upon us, but you must get out and vote Republican and vote for Byron Donalds and Ashley Moody,” Trump said. “They’re incredible. You'll look back at these votes as being maybe the most important you’ve ever had.”
During the event, Trump also announced $184 million in additional FEMA disaster funding for 15 counties in Florida’s Panhandle, following requests from Donalds and Moody. The funding covers temporary housing, home repairs, and other recovery aid for residents affected by Hurricane Isaias. Trump stated, “Could we get $184 million in additional FEMA hurricane relief funding for the Florida Panhandle? I love the Panhandle.”
Protesters Disrupt Rally, Trump Calls Them ‘Paid Protesters’
The rally was briefly interrupted by protesters embedded in the crowd. Security personnel escorted them out, and attendees drowned out their presence with disapproving shouts. Trump commented on the incident, stating, “another paid protester.” The disruption lasted only moments before the event resumed.
Attendees and Speakers
In addition to Trump, Florida officials and candidates addressed the crowd, including Lt. Gov. Jay Collins, Rep. Randy Fine, Attorney General James Uthmeier, and Sen. Rick Scott. Other notable attendees included Chief of Staff Susie Wiles, Federal Housing Finance Agency Director Bill Pulte, Attorney General Todd Blanche, Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Sen. Tom Emmer (R-Ind.). Eric and Laura Trump were also present with their children.
Trump’s Broader Campaign Efforts
Trump has spent the past month campaigning across multiple states in an effort to bolster Republican candidates ahead of the midterms. Polls remain tight in several key races, with Democrats aiming to secure control of the Senate and House. At the rally, Donalds emphasized the stakes, telling the crowd, “There will be no sharia law here in Florida. We gotta get out and vote. We gotta get out and win. We gotta keep Florida free.”
During the event, Trump also addressed criticism from Hollywood figures, claiming some actors who have previously criticized him are now seeking federal assistance as production moves overseas. He suggested potential tax credits to incentivize keeping productions in the United States, citing countries like Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom as competitors offering government incentives.