Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucuses launched former President Donald Trump‘s 2024 Republican presidential campaign. Ron DeSantis finished second, gaining momentum, and Nikki Haley remained third.
Trump’s Strengths and Weaknesses: Unity, Criticism, and the Battle for Delegates
Trump comforted fans about national unity. After severe criticism, DeSantis announced, “We got our ticket punched out of Iowa.” Based on momentum, Haley argued Iowa had made the Republican primary a two-person race while finishing third.
Iowa caucuses GOP dynamics exposed Trump’s vulnerabilities. He won easily, but only 4 in 10 suburban Iowa Republicans supported him. Few college graduates supported Trump, with only 2 in 10 Iowans.
Some 25% of GOP caucusgoers felt Trump had legal issues related to the Capitol riot, election intervention, or sensitive materials. Despite caucus divisions, Trump remained powerful. Donald Trump garnered 16 of Iowa’s 40 delegates, while Haley and DeSantis received 4. Those 60% state delegates will be key at the Milwaukee RNC.
Iowa’s Chilly Caucuses: Trump Leads as Candidates Make Final Pitches
Six in 10 Iowa Republicans desired major federal government improvements, while three in 10 wanted a complete overhaul. Immigration and the economy were party priorities.
They were the coldest first-in-the-nation caucuses ever. Despite chilly, Iowa Republicans attended caucuses.
Final pitches were made at caucuses. Trump lauded supporters, DeSantis emphasized economic regeneration, and Haley used momentum. Iowa’s 2024 Republican caucuses set up the New Hampshire primary. Candidates scramble for nomination with Trump leading.