Donald Trump to Host Crucial Rally in Coachella, Targeting Latino Support and Key House Races

Former President Donald Trump is set to hold a significant rally in Coachella, California, this weekend, a move seen as a strategic effort to garner critical support from Latino voters and influence key House races in the region. The rally, scheduled for Saturday at Calhoun Ranch, comes just 23 days before the presidential election and is expected to draw a large crowd from the East Valley and neighboring states like Arizona and Nevada.

The Trump campaign has emphasized that the rally is not aimed at flipping California, a state where Trump trails Vice President Kamala Harris by 20 points, but rather to improve upon his 2020 performance. In the 2020 election, Trump secured 34.3% of the votes in California, and the campaign hopes to exceed this percentage. The rally also aims to target Harris’s record, particularly on border issues and rising costs in the state, which have been points of contention among Latino voters.

Local officials and residents have reacted strongly to Trump’s visit. Coachella Mayor Steven Hernandez and Congressman Raul Ruiz have expressed opposition, stating that Trump’s policies do not align with the community’s values, especially given Coachella’s predominantly Hispanic and Latino population. However, some local business owners have expressed support for Trump and his policies, although they preferred to remain anonymous to protect their businesses.

The rally is also crucial for the 41st Congressional district, where incumbent Republican Congressman Ken Calvert is in a tight race against Democratic challenger Will Rollins. Trump’s appearance is expected to boost Calvert’s campaign by mobilizing Trump supporters in the area. The event’s location near Calvert’s district is seen as a strategic move to influence this closely contested House race.

Heavy traffic is anticipated in the area, with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department advising of potential delays between Jefferson Street and Monroe Street in and out of La Quinta. Shuttle services will be provided from parking locations at the Riverside County Fairgrounds and Spotlight 29 Casino to manage the expected crowd.

The rally’s significance extends beyond California, as it is part of Trump’s broader strategy to shore up support in swing states with large Latino populations, such as Arizona and Nevada. Trump’s campaign believes that by highlighting his stance on immigration and border policies, he can attract more Latino voters who are concerned about issues like inflation, rising costs, and the housing crisis.