President Donald Trump has announced a slate of endorsements ahead of primary elections taking place Tuesday in California, Iowa, Montana, New Jersey, New Mexico, and South Dakota, weighing in on several gubernatorial, congressional, and Senate contests.
Among the most notable endorsements is Rep. Randy Feenstra (R-Iowa), who is seeking the Republican nomination for governor of Iowa. Trump praised Feenstra’s record and outlined the priorities he believes the congressman would pursue if elected.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said Feenstra would focus on growing the economy, reducing taxes and regulations, supporting domestic manufacturing, expanding American energy production, and backing Iowa’s agricultural industry. He also highlighted issues including border security, law enforcement, election integrity, military support, and Second Amendment protections.
Trump also turned his attention to California, where he endorsed Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton. The former Fox News host is competing in California’s unique top-two primary system, which places all candidates on a single ballot regardless of party affiliation. The two candidates who receive the most votes advance to the general election.
In his endorsement, Trump criticized California’s Democratic leadership and specifically targeted Gov. Gavin Newsom, a longtime political rival. Trump argued that the state faces challenges related to crime, taxation, and governance, while expressing confidence that Hilton could help reverse those trends if elected.
“Steve can turn it around, before it is too late,” Trump wrote, adding that his administration would work closely with Hilton should he become governor.
Beyond the governor’s race, Trump endorsed several California Republicans running for Congress. Those endorsements included Assemblyman James Gallagher and San Diego County Supervisor Jim Desmond, both of whom are seeking seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Additional California candidates receiving Trump’s backing include Reps. Tom McClintock, Jay Obernolte, and Vince Fong. Trump also endorsed Kevin Lincoln, the former mayor of Stockton, who is running in California’s newly redrawn 13th Congressional District.
Outside California, Trump endorsed a number of Republican congressional candidates and incumbents. Rep. Brian Mast of Florida received Trump’s support, along with New Jersey Reps. Tom Kean Jr., Jeff Van Drew, and Chris Smith. Montana Rep. Troy Downing was also among those endorsed.
In Iowa’s Senate race, Trump endorsed Rep. Ashley Hinson as she seeks a seat in the upper chamber.
Other endorsements announced by Trump include Aaron Flint in Montana, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley, and former New Mexico police officer Greg Cunningham.
Trump had previously endorsed Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), further signaling his continued involvement in shaping Republican primary contests across the country.
The endorsements come as Trump remains an influential figure within the Republican Party. Earlier this year, he pointed to a series of victories by candidates he backed in GOP primaries and runoff elections, highlighting his ongoing role in helping shape the party’s electoral strategy heading into future races.
