Trump, 79, took to Truth Social early Saturday to praise his final rally of 2025 in Rocky Mount, North Carolina.
“Just leaving North Carolina, where the Crowd was amazing!” he posted.
The reality, however, looked very different. Empty chairs and quiet streets suggested many North Carolinians had other plans that Friday night. The rally did not draw the usual sea of MAGA supporters.
A look at the president’s venue tonight pic.twitter.com/171ue1JwNC
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) December 20, 2025
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Trump has been campaigning for the 2026 midterms, trying to energize the party’s base. But his ability to fill a room is showing cracks. Reports from the Washington Post noted a smaller-than-average crowd, with attendees often cash-strapped and unable to buy MAGA merchandise.
“Usually, Trump rallies are like a football tailgate. This is strange,” said one merch seller, packing up unsold hats and shirts outside the venue.
The rally itself was a mix of politics and unexpected digressions. Trump urged the crowd to support Republican Michael Whatley in the upcoming Senate race.
“They will hopefully be voting for Michael Whatley, to be the next Senator. His opponent, former Governor Roy Cooper, is a Radical Left Lunatic who let the people of North Carolina down, especially in time of need,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
He also brought up the economy, claiming, “Low drug prices alone should win the Midterms for Republicans!” Then he shifted to sports, praising Jake Paul’s performance against “a very talented and large Anthony Joshua.”
Even at a rally, Trump could not resist giving glimpses into his private life. He spoke at length about First Lady Melania’s meticulous organization.
“She’s a very meticulous person… Everything is perfect. Her undergarments, sometimes referred to as panties, are folded perfect, wrapped, they’re like so perfect. I say, ‘That’s beautiful,’” he said.
Observers noticed Trump appeared rushed at times, moving quickly through his points and jumping from topic to topic. Some attendees seemed bemused by the mix of political messaging, personal anecdotes, and sports commentary.
Meanwhile, plenty of empty seats and leftover MAGA merch told a different story from Trump’s claims of a packed, buzzing rally. Support seems to be slipping, and even loyal fans looked worn out and less excited than before.
Featured image via X screengrab
