The former president, flanked by Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis and several lesser-known contenders, immersed himself in the spirited crowd at Ames’ Jack Trice Stadium.
Donald Trump joined the fervor of the Iowa State football game, marking one of his infrequent visits to the pivotal state set to hold the first nominating caucus next year
Trump’s campaign strategy has diverged from traditional Iowa engagement, eschewing town halls and customary campaign traditions after Labor Day. Despite this departure, he maintains a commanding lead over DeSantis and rivals both in Iowa and nationally. Trump’s visits to Iowa often coincide with those of DeSantis, whom he regards as his primary challenger.
Prior to kickoff in the Iowa State football game, Trump made a stop at a fraternity house, warmly greeted by cheering students. Amidst a sea of red plastic cups, footballs lined up on a table were launched into the crowd with a deft toss in the Iowa State football game.
Meanwhile, DeSantis, accompanied by Iowa State graduate Gov. Kim Reynolds, mingled with fans from both teams at tailgate events in the Iowa State football game. Also in attendance were fellow candidates Doug Burgum, North Dakota’s governor, and Asa Hutchinson, a former Arkansas governor.
DeSantis concentrates on solidifying his position in Iowa, Trump has limited his visits to the state this year
His approach relies on state-party functions, providing a cost-effective platform to address sizable, receptive audiences. Simultaneously, his political organization grapples with substantial legal expenses tied to four criminal indictments. Trump’s campaign employs digital outreach and sporadic in-person engagements with voters, including a memorable June event where he distributed Dairy Queen “Blizzards” while candidly admitting his unfamiliarity with the treats.
In contrast to Trump’s strategy, prior high-profile candidates have embraced the town halls and grassroots campaigning quintessential to early primary states like Iowa. Hillary Clinton‘s 2008 bid, marked by smaller meet-and-greets alongside major rallies, serves as a precedent. Ultimately, Clinton conceded the 2008 caucus to Barack Obama, who would go on to secure the nomination and presidency.
Trump’s sole exception to his Iowa event scarcity this year was the Iowa Republican Party Lincoln Dinner in July, a pivotal fundraising affair supporting the caucus.
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