CNN Politics CNN Inside Politics: Election Countdown: Trump, Democrats, and the Stakes Ahead
Nov 2, 2025
David Chalian, a CNN political analyst, shares insights on early voting trends in key states. Amy Walter discusses how Trump's endorsements are shaping voter enthusiasm, while Jeff Zeleny analyzes campaign messaging strategies. Congressman Jeff Van Drew offers an unusual perspective on the government shutdown and health care subsidies. The conversation also tackles critical gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia, highlighting their implications for both parties ahead of the elections.
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Off-Year Races Reflect Views Of The President
- Off-year governor races act as a referendum on the sitting president rather than past campaigns or personalities.
- David Chalian and Amy Walter say Trump's presidency is central to voter decisions in New Jersey and Virginia.
Early Vote Demographics Shift The Math
- Early voting in New York City skews older, giving Cuomo a path despite younger voters favoring Mamdani.
- New Jersey early voters are 52% Democratic versus 29% Republican, benefiting Sherrill.
Targeting Majority-Minority Counties Matters
- Democrats targeted majority-minority counties with Obama to recover gains Trump made with voters of color.
- Passaic and Essex counties became key battlegrounds because of high Latino and Black populations.