52 million votes cast as Trump rallies in Iowa and Kansas

More than 52 million votes have been cast ahead of the Tuesday election. President Donald Trump is using the final weekend of campaigning to hold rallies in Iowa and Kansas. These states have historically favored Republican candidates, but they are now central to the party's defensive strategy.

The White House appears focused on preserving its congressional majorities. Trump's itinerary includes a Sunday afternoon stop in Dubuque, Iowa. Republicans are competing for the state's Senate seat and the governor's office in that race. The 2nd Congressional District, which includes Dubuque, has also become a focal point as the party works to maintain its slim House advantage.

Trump will conclude his campaigning in Salina, Kansas, on the final weekend before Election Day. The state is a target for Democrats, as Adam Hamilton seeks to become the first Kansas Democrat to win a Senate seat in 94 years. The president's presence aims to energize the base in a district that has become a key battleground.

The rallies mark Trump's return to the campaign trail after a one-day break on Saturday. His team initially canceled the Iowa and Kansas stops but abruptly rescheduled them. This shift underscores the urgency surrounding the potential loss of the Senate majority.

The current political dynamic differs sharply from the 2024 cycle. Last year, Trump focused on flipping states that supported Joe Biden in 2020. This year, his attention is on states he previously dominated. Voters, including some former supporters, are questioning the economic effects of his tariff policies and the war in Iran.

Democrats face their own challenges as they push for congressional control. The party is fighting to hold a crucial Senate seat in Michigan. Nominee Abdul El-Sayed is engaged in a public dispute with primary opponent Rep. Haley Stevens. This feud threatens to divide the party as the election approaches.