GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) – President Donald Trump was scheduled to arrive in the Charlotte area Wednesday afternoon ahead of a rally in Gaston County. Trump was expected to speak at 7 pm on Wednesday, September 16 at the Gastonia Municipal Airport in support of Republican US Senate candidate Michael Whatley. You can watch his comments live in the video player above once the event begins. In a social media post, Whatley said he is “thrilled” to welcome Trump to Gastonia, adding, “President Trump needs an ally in the Senate and North Carolina needs a fighter. That’s why we will win on November 3rd!” 2024, in Fayetteville, N.C. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) (Evan Vucci | AP) Whatley, the former chairman of the Republican National Committee, is running against former North Carolina Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper in the U.S. Senate race on Nov. 3, 2026. President Trump endorsed Whatley in the state’s primary election earlier this year. Whatley appeared in. Whatley’s campaign said the candidate did not know the pastor who gave the prayer, nor was the event planned by the campaign.—> Read more: Convicted sex offender offered opening prayer at rally for Republican Senate candidate in North Carolina The U.S. Senate race in North Carolina was among the highest-profile races in the state this year. North Carolina represents one of the few opportunities for Democrats to flip a Republican-held congressional seat in this fall’s midterm elections. The winner will replace Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, who is not seeking re-election in 2026. Major traffic impacts in Gaston County Major traffic delays are expected throughout Gaston County on Wednesday ahead of Trump’s visit. Police urged drivers to plan for afternoon and evening delays, adding that the best option is to avoid the area entirely if possible. Schedule for Wednesday, September 16. Officials released the following schedule for road closures: 10 a.m.: Light road closures begin. 5:30 p.m.: Full closures go into effect and will continue overnight “as necessary.” Road Closures Officials said the area around Union Road and Gaston Day School Road will see the strongest impacts. Police said major affected areas will include: South of I-85 East of US 321 West of South New Hope Road Detours will be in place near: Union Road Robinson Road Bud Wilson Road Gaston Day School Road Click here for more local news Copyright 2026 WBTV. All rights reserved.
