FILE - In this Oct. 10, 2018, file photo, President Donald Trump arrives to speak at a campaign rally at Erie Insurance Arena, in Erie, Pa. President Donald Trump's campaign rallies once had the feel of angry, raucous grievance sessions. More than 350 rallies later, gone is the darkness, the crackling energy, the fear of potential violence as supporters and protesters face off. Perish the thought, have Donald Trump's rallies gone mainstream? (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File)
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON (AP) - Donald Trump's rallies once were the cornerstone of an unconventional, star-powered presidential campaign that didn't rely on traditional organizing and defied every expectation.
Now they're being deployed with gusto as Trump and his team work frantically to defy polls and historic precedent and save his Republican majority in Congress in next month's elections.
Trump has been aggressively campaigning across the county to try to boost vulnerable Republicans before Election Day.
Trump's team believes his appearances fire up his loyal base, countering the wave of Democratic enthusiasm that polls suggest will lead to significant Democratic gains, especially in the House.
But after more than 350 rallies since he first began his presidential run, some things have changed.
President Donald Trump speaks to a cheering crowd at Eastern Kentucky University, Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Richmond, Ky. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)
The Associated Press
President Donald Trump raises his fist to the crowd following his speech at Eastern Kentucky University, Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018, in Richmond, Ky. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)
The Associated Press
President Donald Trump speaks at a rally at Alumni Coliseum in Richmond, Ky., Saturday, Oct. 13, 2018. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
The Associated Press