Over the past two decades, Virginia has been a stronghold for Democrats in presidential elections, with the last Republican victory in the state occurring during George W. Bush’s re-election in 2004. However, Republican Governor Glenn Youngkin sees a potential shift in this trend, believing that former President Donald Trump could break the streak in the upcoming 2024 election rematch against President Joe Biden.
Youngkin’s optimism stems from recent polling data suggesting a deadlock between Biden and Trump in Virginia, with both candidates garnering 48% support in a head-to-head match. Additionally, in a multi-candidate race, Biden holds 42% support, while Trump closely follows at 41%, indicating a competitive landscape in the state.
Youngkin’s own victory in the governor’s race in 2021, along with other Republican wins in statewide races and the flipping of the state House, has energized the GOP in Virginia. Despite setbacks in the state House elections last November, Youngkin remains committed to campaigning enthusiastically for Trump’s re-election bid.
While Youngkin’s political ambitions have sparked speculation about a potential White House run, he remains focused on serving as governor and prioritizing the interests of Virginians. He attributes his accomplishments as governor to “commonsense conservative policies,” emphasizing his commitment to governance over personal political aspirations.
In Georgia, another Republican governor, Brian Kemp, faces challenges within his own party due to his certification of Biden’s victory in the state. Despite tensions with Trump, Kemp remains focused on securing victories for Republicans in the upcoming elections, prioritizing efforts to maintain GOP majorities and keep Georgia red.
Meanwhile, New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, a vocal critic of Trump within the GOP, remains focused on state-level races rather than actively campaigning for or against the former president. Sununu emphasizes the importance of supporting candidates who need assistance in winning state house races, highlighting the significance of local politics over national dynamics.