Heading: Former President Trump Headlines Republican Fundraiser in Minnesota, Boasting State’s Potential in November
Former President Donald Trump made a bold statement on Friday as he headlined a Republican fundraiser in Minnesota, a traditionally Democratic state that he believes he can win in November. Taking a break from his hush money trial, Trump declared his appearance in Minnesota to be an “official expansion” of the electoral map, confidently stating, “We’re going to win this state.”
During his speech at the state GOP’s annual Lincoln Reagan dinner in St. Paul, Trump boasted about the impact of the steep tariffs he imposed on foreign steel, claiming they brought the Iron Range in northeastern Minnesota “roaring back to life.” This region, known for its blue-collar and union workers, has been trending Republican in recent elections.
In typical Trump fashion, he launched a profane attack on President Joe Biden, calling him “a horrible president” who is “destroying our country” and even went as far as to insult Biden’s golf game. Despite losing Minnesota to Biden in 2020, Trump remains optimistic about his chances in the state, citing his close margin of defeat in 2016.
The fundraiser, which attracted around 1,400 attendees including prominent figures like former U.S. Sen. Rudy Boschwitz and MyPillow founder Mike Lindell, offered tickets ranging from $500 to $100,000 for a VIP table with multiple photo opportunities with Trump. The event was a success, with the state party reportedly out of debt for the first time in 10 years thanks to the funds raised.
While some experts are skeptical about Minnesota turning red in the upcoming election, Republican Party chairman David Hann believes there is “great dissatisfaction with President Biden” in the state. Trump’s false claim that he won Minnesota in 2020 was reiterated during the event, despite no evidence of serious irregularities in the state.
Overall, Trump’s visit to Minnesota showcased his determination to campaign aggressively in traditionally Democratic territories, setting the stage for a heated political battle leading up to the November election.
