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Wednesday, October 28, 2026Local news for Charleston and West Virginia.
Charleston Herald · 5312 MacCorkle Avenue SW, South Charleston, WV 25309

Voters judge Trump's campaign pledges

Gas prices and border security are top issues as voters head to the polls in days.

By Daniel Kim ·

Illustration for: Voters judge Trump's campaign pledges
Illustration generated for this article, not a news photograph.

WASHINGTON, D.C. Voters will soon decide how they view President Donald Trump's first two years in office. Campaign promises made during his 2024 bid are now under review. Many candidates in the upcoming elections face similar questions about their track records.

Trump campaigned on turning around the U.S. economy and securing the southern border. He frequently cites his immigration record on the campaign trail. At a rally in Arizona on October 14, he claimed the administration inherited the worst border in American history. He said it is now the safest in the country.

Polls show voters rate the border closure favorably. Critics, however, have raised concerns about other immigration policies. Economic approval remains a weak point for the president. The 'Liberation Day' tariffs have contributed to low ratings on economic management.

The administration kept its promise to eliminate taxes on tips, overtime, and Social Security. Trump also pledged to lower costs for cars, housing, insurance, and prescription drugs. He made this specific list of targets during a speech in Asheville, N.C., on August 14, 2024.

Gas prices have risen 40% since Trump was sworn in. The increase stems largely from global oil supply disruptions linked to the conflict in Iran. During his 2024 campaign, Trump promised no new wars and pledged to end the Russia-Ukraine war on his first day in office. Both conflicts continue.

The president is currently promising to address Cuba on the way home from Iran. Voters in days will weigh these foreign policy moves against his initial pledges. The final decision rests with the electorate.

Source: WQCW · original report published

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