GASTONIA, N.C. (WBTV) – President Donald Trump was expected to arrive in the Charlotte area on Wednesday ahead of a rally in Gaston County.
Trump was arriving at Charlotte Douglas International Airport at around 6: p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 16, ahead of an event in Gastonia. A live stream of Trump’s arrival will be available in the video player above.
Trump to hold rally in Gastonia
According to the White House, Trump was scheduled to speak at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, at Gastonia Municipal Airport. The president’s visit is reportedly meant to support Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley ahead of the general election.
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 3!”
Whatley, the former Republican National Committee chairman, is running against former Democratic North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper in the U.S. Senate race on Nov. 3, 2026. President Trump did endorse Whatley in the state’s primary election earlier this year.
Whatley’s campaign came under fire last week after a pastor, who is a convicted sex offender, delivered an opening prayer at a campaign rally. Whatley’s campaign said the candidate did not know the pastor who delivered the prayer, nor was the event planned by the Whatley campaign.
—> Read more: Convicted sex offender offered opening prayer at rally for GOP Senate nominee in North Carolina
The U.S. Senate race out of North Carolina was among the most high-profile races in the state this year. The winner will replace Republican Sen. Thom Tillis, who is not seeking reelection in 2026.
North Carolina represents one of a few opportunities for Democrats to flip a Republican-held congressional seat in the midterms this fall.
Major traffic impacts
Significant traffic delays are expected across 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.
Timeline
Officials released the following timeline for road closures:
- 10 a.m.: Soft road closures begin.
- 5:30 p.m.: Full shutdowns take effect and will continue through the evening “as needed.”
Road closures
Officers said the area around Union Road and Gaston Day School Road will see the heaviest impacts. Police said the primary areas affected will include:
- South of I-85
- East of U.S. 321
- West of South New Hope Road
Detours will be set up near:
- Union Road
- Robinson Road
- Bud Wilson Road
- Gaston Day School Road
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