Former President Donald Trump is intensifying his campaign to regain Pennsylvania's support, as he plans visits to critical swing areas of the state this weekend. Recognizing Pennsylvania as a crucial battleground, Trump aims to challenge President Biden's stronghold in the region. With 19 Electoral College votes at stake, winning Pennsylvania could significantly narrow Biden's path to victory in future elections.

On Saturday, Trump is scheduled to hold a rally in the Lehigh Valley region following a fundraiser in Bucks County, just outside Philadelphia. David Urban, a senior advisor to Trump's 2016 campaign, emphasized that this visit is one of many to come. He noted that Trump's campaign will match, if not surpass, the number of visits made during the 2016 and 2020 elections.

However, recent successes have been seen by Democrats in Pennsylvania, with Biden successfully flipping the state in 2020, and Democrats achieving victories in down-ballot races in 2022. According to polls, Biden currently holds a narrow lead over Trump, with a 46.5 percent to 45.9 percent advantage.

Trump's visit to the Lehigh Valley coincides with the highly competitive seventh congressional district, held by incumbent Rep. Susan Wild (D-Pa.). Republicans believe that they have an edge in Pennsylvania, citing Biden's perceived weaknesses on the economy and immigration. They also point to a voter registration advantage, with 25,593 Republicans automatically registered compared to 22,528 Democrats as of April 10, 2022.

Pennsylvania has been a closely watched battleground, with Trump needing to replicate his successful strategy from 2016. The key is driving up turnout in strongly Republican areas, while dampening Biden's support in areas more favorable to him such as the Philadelphia suburbs.

Lackawanna County, specifically, will be closely monitored once again, as it swung from Trump in 2016 to Biden in 2020. Biden himself will visit Scranton, his birthplace and the county seat, on Tuesday to deliver an economic address, showcasing his commitment to retaining Pennsylvania's support.

The Democratic party in Pennsylvania plans to emphasize Biden's legislative achievements, including the bipartisan infrastructure package. They also seek to tie Trump to the anti-abortion movement and highlight his unfounded claims of a stolen 2020 election. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro (D) echoed this strategy in a statement ahead of Trump's visit, accusing him of pursuing an extreme agenda and perpetuating election lies.

Republicans, however, remain uncertain whether running on these issues will resonate with voters, particularly amid rising inflation concerns. Some Republicans acknowledge vulnerability on the abortion issue in suburban areas, recognizing the need for a more effective messaging strategy.

Another potential factor in the upcoming election is the presence of third-party candidates, with the possibility of Robert F. Kennedy appearing on the Pennsylvania ballot. Strategists from both parties argue that third-party candidates, like Green Party nominee Jill Stein in 2016, can influence the outcome of the race. Kennedy's national name recognition and support could potentially hinder Biden's chances in Pennsylvania.

While Republicans express confidence about their prospects in the state, they caution against complacency. Pennsylvania remains a critical and closely contested battleground that cannot be taken for granted.