Despite Trump’s support, Youngkin told reporters on Saturday that he would not be attending the tele-rally. Short of entirely distancing himself from the event, he also added that his campaign has likely been in touch with the former president’s team.

“I’m not going to be engaged in the tele-town hall,” said Youngkin. “The teams are talking, I’m sure.”

In response, McAuliffe feigned surprise that his opponent would seemingly spurn the support of Trump. In the past, McAuliffe has used Trump’s endorsement as a political cudgel against his opponent.

“It is just killing Trump that he is not here, obviously,” McAuliffe said on Saturday.
“He is in the race, obviously he has endorsed Youngkin seven different times.”