In a recent meeting, former President Donald Trump and Virginia GOP Governor Glenn Youngkin discussed the possibility of the state shifting back into the battleground category, potentially favoring Trump’s candidacy. The Republican National Committee and GOP strategists have expressed optimism about recent poll results showing a tightening race in Virginia, attributing it to the state’s Republican governor and narrow Democratic control of the state legislature.
RNC chair Michael Whatley highlighted the momentum on the ground in Virginia, while Republican strategist Zack Roday pointed to recent elections in the state as proof of its battleground status. Governor Youngkin’s PAC has been active in boosting Virginia Republicans, particularly eyeing the 2nd and 7th congressional districts.
Despite the confidence from Republicans, Democrats remain skeptical about the GOP’s chances in Virginia. Max Glass, a Democratic campaign manager, emphasized that President Biden is not taking the blue-leaning state for granted. Democratic strategists argue that demographics favor Democrats in Virginia, especially when Trump is on the ballot.
While no Republican presidential candidate has won Virginia since 2004, Trump and his advisers are actively exploring the possibility of flipping the state. Pollster Jim McLaughlin believes there is real potential for Republicans to compete in Virginia, citing historical successes in the state. However, Virginia Republicans are more cautious, acknowledging that winning the state will be an uphill battle.
Trump’s interest in flipping Democratic-leaning states like Virginia and Minnesota has been a focal point for the former president’s team. Despite Trump’s confidence, Virginia Republicans remain cautious about the party’s chances of securing victory in the state, with strategist Travis Smith suggesting that a shift in Virginia’s favor could result in a landslide.
