Washington (CNN) President Donald Trump's trip to Pennsylvania on Thursday underscored just how important Republicans believe a House special election there in March is to the party's midterm prospects.

Rick Saccaone

Trump visited Coraopolis, northwest of Pittsburgh. While the White House insisted his speech at H&K Equipment Company wasn't a political trip, Trump clearly had the race to replace the retired Republican Rep. Tim Murphy on his mind.

The GOP candidate in the 18th District race, Rick Saccone, greeted Trump at the airport. Later, on stage, Trump called Saccone "a spectacular man," gave him thumbs-up and thanked him for attending.

Saccone, a state legislator, faces Democratic Marine Corps veteran Conor Lamb in the March 13 special election.

Trump won district by 20 points

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