I grew up in MN, and I think that the reason the midwest was so much more blue is that we were just brought up to give to others - there's plenty for all, pull up a chair - go help that other person who's stuck in the snow - you know, THAT kinda stuff. Somehow that grew into social programs that taxed those left in these states, blind.
It started out for a good reason, but has evolved into entitlements. --Kinda like most unions ;-)
I grew up in MN too. Ottertail county. I noticed its red.