Trump Influence Shapes 2025 Elections in Multiple US States

In the 2025 off-year elections, Democratic candidates are heavily focusing their campaigns on opposition to President Donald Trump, despite his name not being on the ballot and his term ending in three years. In states like New Jersey, Virginia, and California, where Trump is unpopular and has never won statewide, Democrats see an opportunity to capitalize on voter frustration, with ads and candidates pledging to stand against the President. Republicans, meanwhile, continue to embrace Trump as their party leader, using his influence to energize their base and target opponents, as seen in New York City's mayoral race and New Jersey's gubernatorial contest. Local elections, such as those in New York and Luzerne County, Pennsylvania, though lacking high-profile races, are viewed as important indicators for future political trends and voter sentiment. Democratic strategists also see these contests as potential forecasts for upcoming midterm elections, with local outcomes possibly influencing decisions for higher office bids. Overall, Trump's political presence remains a pivotal element shaping campaign dynamics across various races in 2025.