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Trump makes late-night endorsements ahead of primaries in six states

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President Trump has issued a series of endorsements ahead of Tuesday’s primary elections in California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico and South Dakota, including gubernatorial, congressional and Senate races.

Among the candidates Trump has backed is U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, who is seeking to become his state’s next governor.

“As your next Governor, Randy will aim to Grow the Economy, Reduce Taxes and Regulations, Promote Made in the USA, Unleash American Energy Domination, Champion Our Great Farmers and Ranchers, Power Ethanol, Keep Our Borders SECURE, Stop Immigrant Crime, Ensure LAW AND ORDER, Strengthen Our Incredible Military, Veterans, and Law Enforcement, Enhance Election Integrity, and always be on the lookout.” will fight tirelessly to defend our district under the Second Amendment,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.

In California, where Trump and Republicans routinely criticize Democratic majority leadership and hope to make gains despite Democrats’ dominance statewide, Trump has endorsed Steve Hilton in the governor’s race. California uses a top-two primary system in which all candidates are on the same ballot and the two highest vote-getters advance to the general election regardless of party.

PRESIDENT TRUMP APPROVED THE CALIFORNIA GOVERNORAL RACE: ‘HE WILL BE A GREAT GOVERNOR’

President Donald Trump speaks at a rally ahead of the midterm elections at the Horizon Event Center on January 27, 2026 in Clive, Iowa. On Monday, Trump made a series of endorsements ahead of Tuesday’s primary elections in several states. (Win McNamee/Getty Images)

“He’s a really good man, someone who watched this once great state go to hell. Gavin Newscum and the Democrats have done an absolutely terrible job,” Trump said of current Governor Gavin Newsom, who has frequently criticized Trump.

“Crime is on the rise and taxes are the highest of any state in the country, perhaps the world,” Trump said. “Steve can turn the tables before it’s too late, and as President, I will help him do it! Working with our administration, with a Great Governor like Steve Hilton of California, may be better than ever.”

He has also endorsed California GOP Assemblyman James Gallagher, who is running for Congress, as well as San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, who is seeking a seat in the House of Representatives.

TRUMP SUPPORTS HINSON REMAINING IN THE RED SEAT IN THE SENATE IN THE 2026 RACE

GOP gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton and Gavin Newsom stand together

GOP gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton and California Governor Gavin Newsom are photographed together. (AP)

Others receiving endorsements in California include Reps. Tom McClintock, Jay Obernolte and Vince Fong, as well as former Stockton mayor Kevin Lincoln, who is running for a seat in the newly reorganized 13th Congressional District.

Rep. Brian Mast, R-Fla., also received an endorsement from Trump.

Other congressional endorsements included Reps. Tom Kean Jr., Jeff Van Drew and Chris Smith of New Jersey and Rep. Troy Downing, R-Mont. Trump also backed Rep. Ashley Hinson, R-Iowa, in her bid for the U.S. Senate.

Trump also supported Aaron Flint, who is running to represent Montana; South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley; and Greg Cunningham, a former police officer from New Mexico.