Democrats Haven't Won North Carolina Since 2008. Can Biden?
May 29, 2024
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White House correspondents and political editor discuss the struggles of Democrats in North Carolina since 2008, Biden campaign's investment in the state, significance of Black voters, healthcare costs strategy, impact of extreme right gubernatorial candidate, and voter turnout's critical role in determining election outcomes.
Despite recent polling deficits, Biden's campaign focuses on mobilizing Black communities in North Carolina.
Shifting demographics in North Carolina indicate a Democratic advantage in urban areas, emphasizing the need to target educated white voters.
Deep dives
Biden's Struggle in North Carolina
Despite Democrats' hopes for success in North Carolina, recent polls paint a challenging picture for President Biden. With a history of elusive victories, Biden faces significant polling deficits in the state, making the path to a Democratic win uncertain. Efforts to mobilize voters, especially Black communities, and counter low voter turnout challenges reflect the campaign's strategy to secure support.
The Impact of Changing Demographics
Democratic optimism in North Carolina stems from shifting demographics favoring the party, particularly in urban areas and among educated voters. While rural regions remain Republican strongholds, targeting white voters with college degrees becomes vital for the Biden campaign. However, concerns persist over Black voter enthusiasm, a crucial component for Democratic success.
Governor's Race Dynamics
The upcoming governor's race in North Carolina features contrasting candidates - Mark Robinson, a far-right conservative, and Josh Stein, the current attorney general. Robinson's extreme views on abortion and other issues create a compelling narrative for Democrats, who hope his candidacy could galvanize suburban voters against the Republican agenda. This race underscores the significance of abortion as a pivotal issue impacting voter turnout and overall election outcomes.
North Carolina is a purple state with a Democratic governor and a closely-divided, Republican-controlled statehouse. But Democrats have struggled to win presidential elections in that state since Barack Obama won there in 2008. That hasn't stopped the Biden campaign from investing there.
This episode: White House correspondent Deepa Shivaram, senior White House correspondent Tamara Keith, and senior political editor and correspondent Domenico Montanaro.
This podcast was produced by Jeongyoon Han, Casey Morell and Kelli Wessinger. Our editor is Eric McDaniel. Our executive producer is Muthoni Muturi.
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