Summary
Former President Donald Trump recently announced the formation of a “Latter-Day Saints for Trump” coalition aimed at strengthening his support among Latter-day Saints voters in key battleground states as the 2024 election approaches. This coalition is spearheaded by notable Utah Republicans and seeks to address concerns about voter defections that could impact Trump’s chances in crucial Western states like Arizona.
The Latter-day Saints community has historically leaned Republican, particularly in states like Utah and Idaho. However, recent trends indicate a shift in voter sentiment, especially in Arizona, where President Joe Biden won a narrow victory in 2020, partly due to a notable defection of Latter-day Saints voters. Trump’s coalition includes prominent figures such as Senator Mike Lee and Representatives Celeste Maloy and Burgess Owens, who emphasize Trump’s commitment to religious freedom and family values. In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris is also targeting this demographic with her own coalition, highlighting the ongoing political competition for the Latter-day Saints vote. The dynamics of voter registration in Arizona further complicate the electoral landscape, as shifts in party affiliation and the rise of independent voters could significantly influence the outcome of the upcoming election.
Coalition Leadership and Strategy
- Key Figures: The coalition is led by influential Utah Republicans, including Senator Mike Lee and Representatives Celeste Maloy and Burgess Owens.
- Message: Leaders emphasize Trump’s dedication to religious freedom and traditional family values, aiming to reassure Latter-day Saints voters about their support for him.
Voter Dynamics in Arizona
- Historical Context: Arizona has not voted for a Democratic presidential candidate since 1964 until Biden’s narrow win in 2020.
- Current Trends: Recent voter registration data shows a decline in Democratic registrations and an increase in independent voters, which could favor Trump in the upcoming election.
Competing Campaigns
- Harris Campaign: Vice President Kamala Harris is also courting the Latter-day Saints vote, attempting to leverage dissatisfaction with Trump among some voters in this community.
- Voter Sentiment: Concerns about Trump’s divisive political style and his stance on immigration have led some Latter-day Saints to reconsider their support, highlighting a potential vulnerability for the Trump campaign.
The formation of the “Latter-Day Saints for Trump” coalition reflects an urgent effort to consolidate support among a pivotal voter group as the election draws near, amidst changing voter registration trends and increasing competition from the Democratic side.
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