Staff Reports
Former President Donald Trump is not holding back in his attacks on his 2024 rivals in Iowa. As the caucuses approach, both Governor Ron DeSantis and Former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley are making their case to win over Iowa voters. Despite Trump’s strong influence within the Republican primary field, DeSantis and Haley remain determined to secure victory in the crucial early nominating contests.
Trump feuds with Iowa leaders as 2024 rivals eye a caucus upset https://t.co/XQe7uOjMN2 https://t.co/XQe7uOjMN2
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) November 22, 2023
DeSantis has managed to secure two high-profile endorsements in Iowa, including one from influential evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats. However, Trump’s campaign wasted no time in criticizing the endorsement, accusing DeSantis of buying support. The campaign pointed out that various entities associated with DeSantis paid a significant amount of money to Vander Plaats’s foundation. Trump’s team also cited polling data suggesting that the endorsement would have minimal impact on the race.
Trump’s feud with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has also intensified. In a recent social media video, Trump slammed Reynolds, calling her the “most unpopular governor in the entire United States of America.” This increase in disapproval ratings can be attributed to a controversial abortion law and Trump’s public attacks. Despite this, Reynolds still enjoys high favorability among Iowa Republicans, with 81% of likely Republican caucusgoers having a favorable view of her.
While DeSantis and Reynolds face criticism from Trump, Haley is gaining momentum. She has received a surprise endorsement from influential former Republican operative Marlys Popma, who is considered crucial in the Iowa caucus season. Haley’s appeal extends to the “Never Trump” segment of the Republican Party, who see her as a viable alternative. Recent polling indicates that Haley is the second-choice candidate for many supporters of Senator Tim Scott, while DeSantis supporters tend to choose Trump as their second choice.
As the Iowa caucuses approach, both DeSantis and Haley are vying for victory. Haley’s rise in popularity in New Hampshire, where the second Republican presidential nomination contest will be held, could work in her favor. Meanwhile, DeSantis has shifted resources to Iowa, leaving his future uncertain if he fails to secure a caucus win.
In the end, the battle for Iowa remains intense as the 2024 Republican nomination race heats up. With Trump continuing to play a prominent role in the narrative, DeSantis and Haley must navigate their campaigns carefully to win over voters and position themselves as strong contenders against Trump in the upcoming primaries.
