‘I’m Not Running’: Trump Rules Himself Out Of 2026 Midterms, Backs GOP

Washington: US President Donald Trump on Tuesday ruled himself out of contesting the 2026 midterm elections, saying he will instead support the Republican Party as it seeks to retain and expand its influence in Congress.

Trump made the clarification while speaking at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he was discussing the possibility of a new nuclear agreement with Iran. He suggested that Tehran may wait to see how he fares in the midterm elections before deciding whether to forge an accord with Washington.

Trump, on the other hand, stated unequivocally that he would not run in the election and that his own political future would have no influence on his Iran policy.

“But I believe we'll make a deal right after the election because it doesn't make sense for them not to. They're waiting to see how I do in the midterm election. What they don't realize is that I'm not running. I did that already and won in a landslide. We won in a giant landslide. And I'll be here for two and a half years. The Republican Party is running, and I'll be helping them. But I am not running.”

Trump Says Iran Deal Could Come After US Midterms

The remarks came as Trump outlined his position on the likelihood of resolving the conflict with Iran through discussions.

According to Trump, Washington previously offered Tehran economic cooperation in exchange for an end to its nuclear program and support for terrorism. He claimed Iran rejected the offer, prompting the United States to take military action against its nuclear and military infrastructure.

“From the first day I entered the political arena, I've been unwavering. I will never allow Iran to have a nuclear weapon.”

Trump said that while the US had urged Iran to return to negotiations, the Iranian leadership continued to strengthen its missile and drone capabilities. He also stated that permitting Iran to acquire a nuclear weapon would represent a bigger threat, linking Tehran's nuclear goals to attacks blamed on Iran-backed groups as well as the Middle East's overall security situation.

Trump Puts ‘Deal’ Against Further Military Action

While outlining his military response, Trump stated that the question of what happens next is unsettled. He gave a stark choice, come to an agreement that will allow Iran to recover and become a stronger country, or continue military action against the Islamic Republic.

“But I have a big decision to make. Will a deal be made with Iran that lets them rebuild and create a far greater country than it ever was before, maybe one of the greatest in the Middle East or even the world? Or do I annihilate the Islamic Republic and do it quickly, never giving them a chance to kill and destroy people and countries again?”

Trump said he expected a deal to be achieved after the US midterm elections, noting that Iran had little reason to reject the pact.

He also insisted that the election itself would not influence his approach to Tehran.

“I gave absolutely no credence and will not give credence to the election when it comes to Iran. It doesn't even enter my mind. The only thing that does is that Iran will never have a nuclear weapon.”

Trump Claims US Strikes Crippled Iran's Military

Trump also used his UNGA speech to emphasize the scope of the US military campaign against Iran, alleging that American strikes have destroyed or significantly crippled vital components of Tehran's military infrastructure.

He said that Iran's navy, air force, radar, and antiaircraft systems had been destroyed, while its missile and drone manufacturing capabilities had been severely damaged. The US president also accused Iran of breaching a truce agreed upon for nuclear talks, stating that Tehran then launched strikes on civilian commercial vessels.

“Yet even after we agreed to a ceasefire for nuclear discussions, Iran promptly violated it with brazen acts of terrorism against civilian ships from other countries.”

Trump said Washington would continue maintaining pressure on Iran while keeping the possibility of negotiations open.

2026 Midterms: What Is At Stake?

The US midterm elections have been scheduled for November 3, 2026, halfway during President Trump's term. All 435 House seats will be contested, as will nearly one-third of the Senate. In addition, voters in 36 states will pick governors.

Trump's statement makes it obvious that, while he will not be on the ballot, he plans to campaign for Republican candidates.

“The Republican Party is running, and I'll be helping them. But I am not running.”