Republican Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia suggests that the state could be a pivotal battleground in the 2024 presidential election, as recent polling indicates a dead heat between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.
In a shift from recent elections, Virginia may well be in play for the GOP in 2024, according to the Republican chief executive, as Fox News reports.
Virginia has not been won by a Republican presidential candidate since George W. Bush's re-election in 2004. For the past four elections, Democrats have maintained control, including Biden's 10-point win over Trump in 2020.
Youngkin expressed optimism about Trump's prospects in Virginia during an interview at a Republican Governors Association conference in New Orleans. A Fox News poll conducted from June 1-4 revealed Biden and Trump each garnered 48% support in the state. In a race with multiple candidates, Biden had 42%, Trump 41%, Robert K. Kennedy 9%, and both Jill Stein and Cornel West each held 2%.
Youngkin's 2021 gubernatorial victory marked a significant shift in Virginia politics. The GOP also won the lieutenant governor and attorney general races and flipped the state House of Delegates. However, in November 2023, Democrats regained the majority in the state House and maintained control of the state Senate.
Youngkin has fully endorsed Trump and plans to actively campaign for him. He emphasized the importance of common-sense conservative policies, which he believes resonate with Virginia voters. Youngkin's political future has been the subject of speculation, with some considering him a potential White House contender in 2028. However, he has stated his priority remains being the best governor for Virginia.
Republican Gov. Brian Kemp of Georgia, another potential 2028 GOP presidential candidate, certified Biden’s victory in Georgia in 2020, despite Trump’s objections. Kemp faced opposition from Trump in Georgia's 2022 gubernatorial primary but won decisively. He remains focused on securing GOP victories in Georgia for the 2024 elections, emphasizing the need to maintain Republican majorities in the state.
Kemp, following Trump's conviction on 34 felony counts, remarked that the election outcome should be decided by the voters. His focus is on the people and ensuring Georgia remains a Republican stronghold.
New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu, a frequent critic of Trump, supported Nikki Haley before she exited the presidential race in March. Despite his criticisms, Sununu plans to vote for Trump and is concentrating on ensuring GOP control of the New Hampshire Statehouse. He stressed the importance of winning statehouse races and having a strong Republican presence in the legislature.
Youngkin highlighted the dramatic change in Virginia's political landscape since Biden's victory in 2020. He noted that the current competitiveness in the state is a significant development. With months to go before the election, Youngkin expressed excitement about Virginia being in play and the potential impact on the 2024 presidential race.
The governor's commitment to Trump and his enthusiasm for the 2024 campaign underscores his belief in the power of conservative policies. His focus remains on governing Virginia effectively and supporting Republican candidates at all levels.
In summary, Gov. Glenn Youngkin sees Virginia as a key battleground in the 2024 presidential election, with a recent poll showing Biden and Trump tied. The state has not been won by a Republican presidential candidate since 2004, but Youngkin's optimistic outlook and strong support for Trump suggest a potential shift.
The GOP's recent gains in Virginia's gubernatorial and legislative races highlight the state's evolving political landscape.
