Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance is campaigning in North Carolina today, focusing on economic issues at a 3 p.m. rally in Raleigh's Union Station on West Martin Street. He is expected to criticize Vice President Kamala Harris's economic record while promoting former President Donald Trump's economic agenda, which includes tariffs, as noted by The News & Observer. Trump will also visit Wilmington on September 21, highlighting North Carolina's importance in the campaign due to its close polling and valuable electoral votes,  as reported by ABC11.

Both Trump and Vance are trailing in recent polls against their Democratic rivals. The latest WRAL News Poll shows Harris ahead with 49% to Trump's 46%. Their visits to North Carolina appear aimed at regaining support. Vance will focus his speech today on economic strategies that sharply contrast with the current administration's record, which includes falling gas prices, cooling inflation, and a possible interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve. This could influence local views on economic health under Vice President Harris.

As Election Day approaches, the connection between the economy and politics is becoming more intense, with both parties seeking support from North Carolina voters. Trump, who won the state in two previous elections, aims to regain his influence in a state where his victory margins have decreased, according to ABC11. His upcoming rally in Wilmington will focus on the affordable housing crisis, discussing a report on the burden of high rents faced by many North Carolina residents.

Amid all these pre-election moves, political scientist Michael Bitzer from Catawba University shared insight into the campaign's strategy regarding economic indicators. He stated, "If the rate cut happens, Trump and Vance will most likely discount that and pivot back to the economic doom that is their message," according to WRAL.