In a strategic move to reinforce his support base, Donald Trump is set to address a rally in Mosinee, Wisconsin, on September 7, 2024. This event underscores the significance of the Rust Belt states in the upcoming November 5 election, where Trump faces Vice President Kamala Harris.
Mosinee, a town of approximately 4,500 residents, is situated in Marathon County, which has shown a rightward shift in recent elections. The county, which supported Barack Obama in 2008, favored Trump by about 18 points in both 2016 and 2020. This trend reflects the broader political landscape in Wisconsin, which became the 30th state of the United States on May 29, 1848, and has since played a crucial role in national elections.
While Harris has made significant gains among Hispanic and Black voters, Trump maintains a strong lead among whites without a college degree. According to the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted in August 2024, this demographic favors Trump by 25 points, a slight decrease from the 29-point lead he held when running against Joe Biden.
Wisconsin, known as "America's Dairyland," has a diverse economy that has evolved from its traditional base of farming, mining, and lumbering. The state's working-class voters, particularly in small towns and rural areas, remain a key focus for Trump's campaign. This strategy aligns with Wisconsin's strong German-American heritage and its reputation for cheese production, with over 600 varieties produced in the state.
Trump's running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, is expected to concentrate on rural areas of the Rust Belt in the final weeks of the campaign. This approach aims to capitalize on the region's demographic composition and economic concerns.
"Our focus on the Rust Belt, particularly Wisconsin, is crucial. We're confident that our message resonates with the hardworking people of this region."
The importance of Wisconsin in the election cannot be overstated. The state, home to iconic American brands like Harley-Davidson and the Green Bay Packers, has a history of political progressivism exemplified by figures like Robert La Follette. This blend of industrial heritage and political diversity makes Wisconsin a key battleground.
As the campaign intensifies, both Trump and Harris are likely to make multiple visits to Wisconsin. The state's unique characteristics, from its ginseng production in Wausau to the scenic Door County, known as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest," provide ample opportunities for candidates to connect with various voter groups.
The outcome of the Wisconsin vote could significantly influence the national result, making every rally and campaign stop in the state crucial as November 5 approaches.