In just a week, the 2024 Iowa Caucus will commence, marking the beginning of the presidential race as the first votes are cast. This crucial event sets the stage for the entire primary season, with winning or performing strongly in Iowa providing candidates with vital momentum and influencing voter perceptions of their viability.
Former President Donald Trump is emerging as the commanding front-runner in the Iowa GOP presidential caucus, with his support exceeding 50% in recent surveys. Trump’s ground operation in Iowa is significantly stronger than his 2016 effort, which narrowly lost to Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas. Leading the race, Trump is followed by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis at 18% and former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley at 16%, according to a FOX Business poll.
The support for Trump goes beyond the polls. Over one hundred House Republicans, seven governors, and 19 GOP senators have already endorsed Trump, including prominent names such as Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, Josh Hawley of Missouri, and Tom Cotton of Arkansas. Additionally, the entire Minnesota GOP delegation and every GOP member in Alabama’s congressional delegation have thrown their support behind Trump.
Meanwhile, Senate Democrats have shown their support for President Joe Biden, with senators including Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, John Hickenlooper of Colorado, and Chris Murphy and Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut endorsing him. Bernie Sanders, an independent senator from Vermont, also endorsed Biden last year. However, Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia, who is not seeking re-election, has decided not to endorse Biden.
In light of the upcoming Iowa caucuses, Iowa public figures have also voiced their support for candidates. Former political figures like David Oman, who served as chief of staff for former Govs. Robert Ray and Terry Branstad, have endorsed Nikki Haley. Other notable endorsements for Haley include Christine Hensley, who held the longest tenure on the Des Moines City Council, and Doug Gross, a lawyer and former chief of staff for Branstad. On the other hand, Vivek Ramaswamy has received endorsements from controversial former Republican Iowa Rep. Steve King and Salem, New Hampshire, GOP Chairman Steve Goddu.
As the 2024 campaign trail gains momentum, it is clear that Trump has a significant advantage in Iowa. With strong support from Republicans and a well-organized ground operation, Trump is poised to perform exceptionally well in the upcoming caucuses. However, the race is far from over, and candidates like DeSantis and Haley are still formidable opponents. The Iowa caucuses will undoubtedly set the tone for the rest of the primary season, and the results will be closely watched by political observers and voters alike.
