Gov. Tim Walz, a Democratic governor from Minnesota, denies claims that his state is swinging towards former President Donald Trump in the upcoming election. He dismisses Trump’s statements as untrue and highlights the differences in actions between Trump and President Biden when visiting the state. Some Minnesota Democrats are daring Trump to invest money in the state, while others urge caution not to take it for granted. The Democratic National Committee has invested in Minnesota ahead of the election, but there is speculation that Republicans may invest in cities like Minneapolis as well.
The claim that Trump is competitive in Minnesota, New Jersey, and Virginia in the upcoming election was brought up during meetings with congressional Republicans. Some Minnesota Democrats believe that Trump is grasping at straws and that the election will be close, but the Biden campaign is putting together a strong effort in response. While the electoral votes of these three states are not expected to be decisive in the outcome, there is speculation that the GOP may consider investing in cities like Minneapolis, Trenton, and Richmond. Some New Jersey Democrats scoff at the idea that Trump could win in the Garden State.
Despite some beliefs that Trump may be competitive in these states, there are Democrats who remain confident in their party’s ability to secure victory. Rep. Don Beyer, a Northern Virginia Democrat, does not see Virginia as a Trump state culturally, but warns against taking the race for granted. Rep. Gerry Connolly, a longtime House Democrat from Virginia, emphasizes the importance of democracy in the choice between President Biden and Trump. In 2020, Biden won New Jersey and Virginia by double-digit margins, and Minnesota Democrats boast a long winning streak for Democratic presidential candidates.
Political strategists see the claims about Trump’s competitiveness in these states as a common ploy to expand the battlefield and claim a larger map. A tightening race in any state could impact closely fought local races, including for Congress. Rep. Angie Craig, a Minnesota Democrat, stresses the importance of not taking anything for granted in the Second District race, which is competitive and expensive. While there is speculation and differing opinions about the potential outcomes in Minnesota, New Jersey, and Virginia, it remains to be seen how these claims will play out in the upcoming election.
