Trump's Fort Myers Rally Draws Heavy Traffic and Key GOP Figures Ahead of Midterms

Key points

• The rally took place at Alico Arena on the Florida Gulf Coast University campus, with doors opening at 10:30 a.m. and the event beginning at 2:00 p.m.
• Lee County Sheriff's Office warned of traffic delays from early morning through late afternoon, including intermittent lane closures near Southwest Florida International Airport
• The Federal Aviation Administration issued a no-fly order for airspace within 10 nautical miles of the airport from 12:15 to 5:15 p.m.
• Trump predicted the war with Iran would end 'very soon' and that oil prices would fall significantly
• Trump criticized Democratic gubernatorial candidate David Jolly, referencing a Fort Myers murder case involving a Haitian national
• U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced plans for a 'Made in America' label for American seafood

Background

This rally is part of Trump's final campaign push before the November 3 midterm elections, following earlier stops in South Carolina and Iowa. The Florida gubernatorial race between Republican Byron Donalds and Democrat David Jolly has been a focal point, with the Democratic Governors Association announcing a $1 million investment in Jolly's campaign. Trump's last Fort Myers visit was in April 2023, and he previously visited Alligator Alcatraz in July 2025. The event occurs amid ongoing tensions over the Iran war and high inflation, issues that have characterized Trump's recent public appearances, including his September 2026 visit to the Presidents Cup at Medinah Country Club.

How outlets are covering it

WBBH emphasized the logistical impact of the visit, highlighting traffic delays and airport closures, while WINK News provided comprehensive coverage of the rally's political content and speaker lineup. CBS News focused on Trump's voting plans, noting the contrast between his public preference for Election Day voting and his decision to vote early in person. All three sources agreed on the timing and location of the event but differed in emphasis: WBBH prioritized public safety and traffic concerns, WINK News detailed the political messaging and speaker order, and CBS News highlighted the procedural aspect of early voting. WINK News noted that Jim Schwartzel, a Republican candidate for Florida's 19th Congressional District, is president of Sun Broadcasting, which owns WINK News, though the outlet stated he has no involvement in editorial decisions.

Why it matters

The rally underscores the high stakes of the 2026 midterm elections, particularly in Florida, where Democrats have not won a gubernatorial election since 1994. Trump's direct involvement in the race between Byron Donalds and David Jolly signals the national significance of the state's political landscape. The event also highlights ongoing tensions over immigration, energy policy, and foreign affairs, with Trump using the platform to criticize political opponents and promote administration initiatives like the 'Made in America' seafood label. The logistical disruptions and security measures reflect the continued challenges of presidential campaign events in major urban areas.

What to watch

Trump and Melania Trump are scheduled to vote early in Palm Beach County on Saturday, October 24, the first day of early voting in Florida. The midterm elections are set for November 3, 2026, with the Florida gubernatorial race between Byron Donalds and David Jolly expected to be a key contest. Campaign activities are likely to intensify in the final two weeks before Election Day, with both parties making final pushes for voter support. The outcome of the Florida races could have significant implications for the balance of power in state and federal government.