Democrats are setting their sights on North Carolina for the 2024 elections, aiming to win over the state that Donald Trump claimed in both 2016 and 2020. The slim victory margin Trump enjoyed in 2020, coupled with demographic shifts and the selection of Republican Mark Robinson as the gubernatorial nominee, could make North Carolina a battleground state for Joe Biden, according to insights from political scientists and operatives.
Morgan Jackson, a Democratic strategist from North Carolina, expressed optimism about their chances in the upcoming elections. The state’s evolving electoral and demographic landscape could potentially favor Biden, as noted by political experts. Unlike other battleground states, North Carolina is drawing particular attention from Democrats for a potential rematch with Trump. The factors contributing to this focus include the 2020 election’s narrow margin, population growth, and Robinson’s nomination.
Charles Bullock, a political science professor specializing in southern politics, highlighted North Carolina as a key state that might shift in 2024, while several states that Biden won previously are also considered competitive. Current trends suggest a lean towards Trump in critical swing states, with him leading Biden by 5.5 points in North Carolina, where he had his narrowest margin in 2020.
Since then, North Carolina has experienced significant growth, especially in urban areas like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Durham, contributing to its ranking as one of the fastest-growing states in the nation. This urban influx tends to favor Democrats, potentially impacting the state’s political landscape for years to come.
The state has also seen a rise in unaffiliated voters, now outnumbering those registered with either major party. This shift could play a crucial role in determining election outcomes, making North Carolina a fiercely contested state in the coming election cycles.
Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson’s nomination and his controversial statements on various social issues have sparked debate about his impact on the Republican ticket and Trump’s appeal, especially among suburban and college-educated voters. Conversely, some experts believe Robinson’s alignment with Trump might affect his own chances more than Trump’s.
The dynamics between the presidential and gubernatorial races in North Carolina present unique challenges for both parties. With a history of ticket-splitting among voters, the state’s electoral outcome remains unpredictable. Early polls suggest a competitive race, but many voters remain undecided, leaving room for shifts in the political landscape as the election approaches.
North Carolina’s role as a potential decider in the presidential race underscores its importance, with only two Democratic presidents elected there since 1964. As the campaigns progress, both parties are closely watching North Carolina, aware of its potential to influence the overall election results.