The NPR Politics Podcast

Trump Wants To Do What Reagan Couldn't: Win Minnesota

May 20, 2024
Clay Masters, a senior politics reporter from Minnesota Public Radio, dives deep into the state's evolving political landscape. He discusses Trump’s aspirations to win Minnesota, a state that hasn't backed a Republican since 1972. The conversation reveals insights into shifting voter dynamics, especially among non-college white male voters and suburban women. Masters highlights the influence of issues like abortion on voter turnout and the challenges faced by Republicans in a traditionally blue stronghold, amidst waning enthusiasm for Biden.
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ANECDOTE

Minnesota on Trump's Radar

  • Trump narrowly lost Minnesota in 2016, sparking renewed Republican interest.
  • Despite claiming he'd never return after losing Minnesota in 2020, Trump held a rally there in 2024.
ANECDOTE

Republican Voters and Past Elections

  • In Minnesota's 2024 primary, a significant portion of Republican voters, 29%, chose Nikki Haley.
  • A Republican strategist pointed out that if Evan McMullin's 2016 voters had supported Trump, Trump would have won Minnesota.
INSIGHT

Demographic Shifts in Minnesota

  • The shift of non-college white voters, particularly men, towards the Republican party is impacting Minnesota.
  • The Iron Range, traditionally a Democratic stronghold, now leans Republican, illustrating this demographic shift.
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