DeSantis’ high poll numbers in Virginia worry Democratic senator up for reelection.

Democratic Senator Tim Kaine Cites DeSantis’s Strong Polling in Virginia

Strong polling for Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) in Virginia is getting attention from both Republicans and Democrats. Sen. Tim Kaine (D-VA), who is running for reelection in the blue state of Virginia, cited DeSantis’s strong polling in a fundraising email sent to supporters on Friday, warning voters that “Democrats can’t afford to lose here.”

Virginia Could Be a Key Battleground State for the Presidency

The polling shows DeSantis tied with President Joe Biden in a hypothetical matchup in 2024, indicating Virginia could emerge as a key battleground state for the presidency. “Virginians know that the road to the White House runs directly through our Commonwealth,” the email reads. “With polls showing that Virginia could be one of 2024’s most competitive battlegrounds, NOW is the time to prepare for a fight.”

Donate to Kaine’s Reelection Campaign

The email asks supporters to donate to Kaine’s reelection campaign as the two-term senator builds a grassroots coalition across Virginia to elect Biden and other Democrats down the ballot. “Thank you for anything you can give,” the email reads. “The polls are clear — we cannot afford not to invest every penny we can into Virginia.”

Expected to Lean Heavily Democratic in 2024

Kaine is running for reelection in a contest that is expected to lean heavily Democratic in 2024, according to the nonpartisan Cook Political Report. The fundraising plea comes as DeSantis is expected to announce his presidential bid next week, joining a crowded field of contenders fighting for the GOP nomination. Former President Donald Trump leads the group in polling so far, but DeSantis is expected to emerge as his top challenger over the coming months.

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