Former President Donald J. Trump, speaking at a fundraiser for Minnesota’s Republican Party in St. Paul, made false claims about winning the state twice and declared it was in play for him in 2024 despite historical voting patterns.
The last time Minnesota voted Republican in a presidential election was in 1972 with Richard M. Nixon.
Nonetheless, Mr. Trump, seeking to avenge his loss to Joe Biden, announced plans to focus on Minnesota in the upcoming election.
During his speech, Mr. Trump emphasized his stance on law and order, taking credit for quelling riots in the state following the George Floyd incident in 2020.
He also criticized the judge presiding over his trial in New York while attending his son Barron’s graduation in Florida.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz denounced Mr. Trump’s false claims and called them an attack on democracy.
Despite the controversy, Mr. Trump is set to speak at the National Rifle Association’s annual meeting in Dallas, continuing his support for gun rights.
Contributions to this article were made by Jazmine Ulloa.
