Trump uses Pa. appearance to blast opponents
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump’s rally in Wilkes-Barre Thursday night was billed as a chance to help U.S. Rep. Lou Barletta, one of the president’s most vocal supporters and a candidate for U.S. Senate.
But over roughly 80 minutes, Mr. Trump’s own accomplishments, grudges, and political imperatives dominated an evening that thrilled a packed crowd, but may also fuel his opponents. Here are some key points: • Focus on 2020: Some Republicans are practically writing off Mr. Barletta’s chances against Sen. Bob Casey Jr., Pennsylvania’s incumbent Democrat, but Mr. Trump has his own reasons for visiting the Keystone State.
Pennsylvania is critical to his re-election — Mr. Trump opened by recounting his upset win in the state 21 months ago, but his 2016 victory has sparked a surge in suburban activism that threatens his grip.
• Sleepin’ Bob: Trump praised Mr. Barletta as a “dynamo” and “incredible” and brought him on stage for brief remarks.
The president pinned Mr. Casey with a nickname: “Sleepin’ Bob.” As with “Crooked Hillary,” “Lil’ Marco,” and “Lyin’ Ted,” this move has worked.
The Casey name is ingrained in Pennsylvania politics, especially in the Northeast, The Caseys hail from Scranton and his father Bob Sr., was governor. Mr. Trump pointedly tried to separate the two, saying Mr. Casey Jr. obeys Democratic bosses: “Not the father. But the son, yes.”
• Grievances: The president devoted much of his rally to complaining.
He berated perceived enemies, mostly the “fake, disgusting news,” various Democrats, and, of course, CNN.
Even when touting his accomplishments on the economy and Supreme Court and reliving his 2016 election win, Mr. Trump used his successes to fuel gripes that he doesn’t get enough credit.
• Cuts both ways: The rally thrilled Trump supporters, who credit him with a surging economy. In places like Northeast and Southwest Pennsylvania, the president clearly retains enthusiastic support. But his presence also roused his critics. Minutes after the rally, Gov. Tom Wolf’s re-election campaign sent out a fund-raising email highlighting Mr. Trump’s praise for Mr. Wolf’s challenger, Republican Scott Wagner.