### Trump Campaigns in Democratic California Ahead of Election Day

COACHELLA, Calif (AP) - In a move that has left many political analysts scratching their heads, Donald Trump has taken his campaign to the deeply Democratic state of California, just weeks before the upcoming Election Day. Despite the near-certainty of losing the state, Trump has reasons for his visit that extend beyond the immediate electoral prospects.

California, where Trump lost in a landslide in 2020, still holds an enormous repository of potential GOP volunteers. In that election, Trump garnered over 6 million votes—a record for any Republican presidential candidate in the state. Moreover, his support in rural counties often exceeded 70%. This makes California a significant source of potential campaign workers who can contribute to phone banks and other election activities in more contested battleground states like Wisconsin and Pennsylvania.

Trump's stop in Coachella, known predominantly for its annual music festival, falls amidst his busy campaign schedule that includes events in Nevada and Arizona. Earlier on Saturday, Trump attended a Latino roundtable in Las Vegas, praising the Hispanic community for their "energy." He narrowly lost Nevada and Arizona to Joe Biden in the 2020 election and is determined to turn the tides this year.

Attendees of the Coachella event, held under scorching 100-degree temperatures, expressed their excitement at seeing Trump in person. Tom Gibbons from Palm Desert, a loyal supporter since 2016, said the event felt like a "convention of like-minded people" who resonate with "the heartbeat of America."

Tim Lineberger, former communications director for Trump’s 2016 campaign in Michigan, emphasized the strategic benefits of activating California’s Trump supporters. He recalled Californians assisting in phone canvassing efforts for Michigan in 2016, describing the current campaign’s decision as an "aggressive, offensive play."

Fundraising is another critical component of Trump’s California visit. Special photo opportunities with the former president were priced at $25,000, while a "VIP Experience" was set at $5,000. With crucial congressional races also on the ballot, Trump's rally aims to energize the Republican base and boost voter turnout.

Additionally, Trump’s visit allows him to continue his long-standing dispute with Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. Newsom has criticized Trump’s narrative about California, highlighting the state's strong economy and numerous Fortune 500 companies. Trump, on the other hand, is expected to link California's challenges to Democratic leadership, specifically targeting Vice President Kamala Harris, a former California attorney general and senator.

Jessica Millan Patterson, chairwoman of the state GOP, echoed Trump’s sentiments, arguing that the current Democratic administration has left Californians worse off. She confirmed that Republicans are committed to securing a House majority in the upcoming elections.

Even as Trump ventures into unfriendly territory, his California events serve multifaceted purposes: rallying national support, fundraising, and stoking Republican enthusiasm for down-ballot races.