Former President Trump and Ohio Sen. JD Vance are heading to Minnesota. It's a surprisingly close state for Republicans, untouched in 52 years.
Trump and Vance plan to visit St. Cloud on Saturday. This was announced Tuesday. Trump pollster John McLaughlin thinks the state is competitive.
McLaughlin believes Vance, Trump’s running mate, could help. Vance, from Ohio, might appeal to Midwest voters.
Trump barely lost Minnesota to Hillary Clinton in 2016, by 1.5%. His 2020 performance against Biden was worse, losing by about 7%.
But polls show Minnesota could be competitive in 2024. A June poll showed Trump trailing Biden by just 4%. The Real Clear Politics average shows Trump only 3 points behind Biden.
One poll even shows Trump and Biden tied. This is in the typically blue state of Minnesota.
The Trump campaign is optimistic about winning more states in 2024. They are expanding beyond usual swing states. Minnesota and Virginia are of particular interest.
Trump has also trended favorably in Virginia. He now holds a narrow lead there. Recent polls show Trump up two and three points.
A Trump campaign spokesperson highlighted recent polling. It shows Trump with a one-point lead in Minnesota. They also noted eight new field offices in the state.
Trump believes Minnesota is in play. He cites Vance’s Midwestern roots. "J.D. has had a very successful business career...focused on American Workers and Farmers," Trump said.
Their trip to Minnesota comes as Biden exits the race. Biden endorsed Kamala Harris, rallying Democrats around her.
Less polling exists for Trump vs. Harris. Trump hopes to get a head start in Minnesota with his visit on Saturday.