PHILADELPHIA (CBS) — Former President Donald Trump is targeting Philadelphia as the 2024 elections approach.
On Saturday, Trump gathered at Temple University in the deeply Democratic city that is a regular stop for President Joe Biden. Trump has had a larger presence in the city during this campaign cycle.
“They’ve both had success historically in Pennsylvania, and they both recognize that the path to 270 Electoral College votes really has to go through Pennsylvania,” said Andrew McGinley, vice president of Committee of Seventy, a nonprofit that advocates for for an effective government and better elections.
Chris Szagola / AP
But the rally isn’t the only way Trump has increased his visibility in Philadelphia this year.
In February, Trump attended SneakerCon in the city. Earlier this month, the Trump campaign opened its first office in Holmesburg. That same evening, a Republican congressman held an event pitching Trump to black voters.
“I would imagine he’s trying to win some votes and maybe generate some new votes,” McGinley said.
Even Biden’s supporters said they have noticed Trump’s increased presence.
“I see now that he’s trying to get black voters to come out and vote for him,” said Kishma Williams, who lives in the city’s Carrol Park neighborhood. “I can see that.”
“He’s doing what you have to do if you want to win the election,” said Henry Nesbitt, a West Philly native.
Experts said Trump’s victory in Philadelphia would be “historic” but he may not need to win the county to win the state. Four years ago, Mr. Biden surpassed Trump by more than 466,000 votes in Philadelphia.
But he only won the state by just over 80,000. Experts say even a small move toward Trump in Philadelphia could have an impact.
“The profit margins will probably be small,” McGinley said. “So one candidate changing their mind or gaining new votes can make a big difference.”
Mr. Biden has certainly not forgotten Philadelphiaalthough. He has visited the city at least five times this year. But supporters said they think he should do it even more.
“I think Biden needs to do a little more,” Williams said. ‘I think he needs to come out a bit more. And also the vice president, I haven’t seen her as much as I should have.”
