Yes, Virginia (and the rest of the country), Donald Trump matters.
With his post-election popularity and influence at the highest, the former president’s four endorsed candidates in Tuesday’s elections all won, highlighted by Virginia Gov.-elect Glenn Youngkin, the rookie politician who beat lifetime pol Terry McAuliffe.
In the elections, two Trump-backed candidates also beat two of President Joe Biden’s endorsed challengers — the victories seen by some Republicans as a sign of 2020 election buyer's remorse and a 2024 preview.
“The power of President Trump’s endorsement is undeniable,” said Brian Jack, the former Trump White House political director.
