Trump Tells Supporters to ‘Cheat Like Hell’ in Unprecedented Election Pledge

US President Donald Trump has sparked controversy after telling supporters at a Republican midterm convention in Dallas to “cheat like hell” as they prepare to vote in the November elections.

Trump made the remarks while leading thousands of supporters in an unusual voting pledge during the closing session of the Republican midterm convention.

With his right hand raised, Trump asked members of the audience to repeat after him as they pledged to turn out for the November 3 midterm elections.

“I don’t care if I’m registered or not, I’m going to try and cheat like hell like they do,” Trump said, referring to his long-running, unsubstantiated claims that Democrats have cheated in elections.

The audience reportedly responded with laughter as Trump continued his remarks, accusing Democrats of being “bigger cheaters” without providing evidence.

Trump also encouraged supporters to mobilise their families and friends and take them to the polls, telling them to vote even if they were not registered.

The comments drew criticism because voting while knowingly ineligible or attempting to circumvent election requirements can constitute an offence under US law.

Trump’s remarks came as Republicans prepare for the November midterm elections, in which control of Congress will be contested.

The president has repeatedly urged Republican voters to treat the midterms as a referendum on his administration and warned that a Democratic victory could undermine his political agenda.

During the convention, Trump also asked supporters to “pretend” he was on the ballot, despite not being a candidate in the 2026 midterm elections.

He further promised a proposed $5,000 “Trump dividend” for every adult American if Republicans retain control of both chambers of Congress, although he has not provided detailed plans explaining how the payments would be financed and implemented.

Trump also warned supporters that they would “go to hell” if they failed to vote, using religious language to emphasise the importance of turnout.

The unusual pledge and the “cheat like hell” remark have intensified scrutiny of Trump’s approach to election politics, particularly given his repeated claims about election fraud and voting integrity.

The November 3 election will determine the balance of power in Congress and could significantly affect the remainder of Trump’s presidency.