Trump's biggest midterm bets: 5 candidates he is backing in 2026

Arizona Rep Andy Biggs is among Trump's most significant endorsements this cycle. A founding member of the House Freedom Caucus and one of the president's most loyal allies, Biggs is seeking the Republican nomination for governor in a state that has become a major political battleground. While his support from Trump has energized conservative voters, he faces a competitive primary against Rep David Schweikert, whose more moderate message is aimed at independents and swing voters. Even if Biggs secures the nomination, reclaiming Arizona's governorship from Democrats will be an uphill battle, making this one of Trump's higher-risk statewide bets.

Former Pinal County Sheriff Mark Lamb built his national profile through his outspoken positions on border security and immigration, issues that closely align with Trump's agenda. The president has endorsed Lamb in Arizona's 5th Congressional District, but the campaign has been complicated by misconduct allegations that, while not resulting in criminal charges, have drawn significant attention. Trump has stood by Lamb despite the controversy, making him one of the president's riskier endorsements, even though the district itself strongly favors Republicans.

Tennessee Rep. Andy Ogles remains one of Trump's closest House allies and is seeking another term in a district that has consistently favored Republicans. Although he faces a primary challenge and has dealt with scrutiny over campaign finance issues, the district's strong Republican tilt and Trump's endorsement make Ogles one of the safer bets among the president's marquee endorsements. The bigger question is not whether Republicans will hold the seat, but whether Trump's backing is enough to help Ogles fend off his intraparty challenger.

Former NFL kicker Jay Feely is making the leap from professional sports to politics as he competes for Arizona's open 1st Congressional District. Trump's endorsement instantly elevated his profile, but Feely enters the race without previous elected office experience and faces a competitive Republican primary against better-established conservative rivals. If he emerges as the nominee, he will also have to navigate one of Arizona's most closely watched congressional contests. Among Trump's endorsed candidates, Feely is one of the least predictable bets because he is both a political newcomer and a first-time candidate.

Following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, Trump urged the senator's sister, Darline Graham, to seek a full Senate term after she was appointed to temporarily fill the seat. While the endorsement carries emotional weight and benefits from South Carolina's Republican lean, Graham enters the race without prior elected office experience and immediately faces challenges from seasoned Republican lawmakers, including Reps. Ralph Norman and Russell Fry. Her campaign could become one of the biggest tests of Trump's endorsement power this year.