Former President Donald J. Trump, speaking at a fundraiser for the Minnesota Republican Party in St. Paul, falsely claimed that he had won the state twice and suggested it was in play for him in the 2024 election. Despite his claims, the last time a Republican presidential candidate won Minnesota was in 1972.
During his nearly 90-minute appearance at the party’s annual dinner, Mr. Trump emphasized a law and order narrative, touting his role in quelling riots after the killing of George Floyd in 2020. He also took aim at the judge presiding over his trial in New York, accusing him of denying his request to attend his son’s graduation.
Minnesota’s Democratic governor, Tim Walz, criticized Mr. Trump for his false claims about winning the state in 2020, calling them “an affront to democracy.”
Mr. Walz pointed out that Mr. Trump lost Minnesota by over seven points and highlighted that Joe Biden came closer to winning Texas than Mr. Trump did in Minnesota. Despite these facts, Mr. Trump continues to push his campaign forward, with plans to speak at the National Rifle Association’s annual meeting in Dallas. This will be his ninth time addressing the group, as he remains committed to rolling back restrictions on guns.
In past appearances at the N.R.A.’s convention, Mr. Trump has faced controversy, such as speaking at the event in 2022 following a tragic school shooting in Texas. Despite criticism, he remains a prominent figure within the organization.
Jazmine Ulloa contributed reporting.
