Donald Trump has emerged victorious in the Iowa caucuses, solidifying his leading position in the race for the Republican presidential nomination.
A Trump Comeback?
Aiming to be the first one-term president since Grover Cleveland in the 1890s to make a comeback, Trump achieved an unprecedented performance on Monday in the first 2024 showdown.
Trump’s Post-Victory Message
The Associated Press quickly declared Trump the winner, a move made while many Iowans were still voting. Post-victory, Trump addressed his supporters, saying, “We were a great nation three years ago, and now we’re a nation in decline.”
A Call for Unity
“I really think this is time now for everybody, our country, to come together,” Trump addressed his supporters in Des Moines. “Whether it’s Republican or Democrat, or liberal or conservative, it would be so nice if we could come together.”
Tight Race for GOP Runner-Up
Meanwhile, the contest for the runner-up spot was fiercely competitive, with Ron DeSantis narrowly defeating Nikki Haley in an unexpected turn of events.
Trump Shatters Iowa Records
As the count reaches 99%, Trump stands at 51%, with DeSantis and Haley at 21.2% and 19.1%, respectively. This marks a record-breaking victory for Trump in Iowa, exceeding the state’s previous 12-point record in a competitive GOP presidential race.
Haley Declares Two-Person Race
Haley, formerly South Carolina’s governor, was viewed as the moderate Republican option, with perceived stronger chances against Biden in the general election.
Addressing her supporters on Monday, Nikki Haley confidently declared that it was now a “two-person race” between her and Trump, positioning herself as a key contender.
DeSantis Trails, But Remains Hopeful
DeSantis, Governor of Florida, embarked on a traditional campaign across Iowa’s 99 counties, hoping to replicate the success of prior candidates. Despite trailing Trump by a wide margin, DeSantis’s unexpectedly strong performance may boost his campaign momentum.
Optimistic Despite Setback
Reflecting on the campaign’s efforts in Iowa, DeSantis told his supporters in Des Moines, “They threw everything but the kitchen sink at us,” he said, speaking to supporters in Des Moines at the end of the night.”
Accepting Iowa’s Results
DeSantis acknowledged the disappointing result despite significant investment in Iowa yet remained optimistic, declaring, “We’ve got our ticket punched out of Iowa.”
Minor Candidates’ Struggle
The Iowa caucuses saw three other candidates lagging behind DeSantis and Haley, each earning only single-digit percentages. Leading these contenders was businessman Vivek Ramaswamy, who ultimately dropped out and threw his support behind Trump. He was followed by Asa Hutchinson, the former governor of Arkansas, and pastor Ryan Binkley.
Drop in Iowa GOP Turnout
Jeff Kaufmann, the Iowa Republican Party chairman, reported an estimated turnout of 100,000 Republicans, a significant drop from the 2016 participation.
Voters Face Extreme Cold
Voters braved extreme winter conditions, including sub-zero temperatures and snow, to gather in various locations for discussions. It is possible that the severe weather and logistical challenges might have hindered access for some.
Iowa Farmers Stand with Trump
Many of Trump’s loyal supporters overlooked his legal issues and broader democratic concerns. 73-year-old retired farmer Ron Osborn from Malcolm, Iowa, expressed his support for Trump, stating, “I think he’s the only one who can beat the cheating Democrats.”
Indictments Strengthen Position
Throughout the campaign, Trump faced minimal direct criticism from his Republican competitors. The various indictments against him, particularly those related to the Capitol riot on Jan. 6, 2021, strengthened his position.
Rallying Behind Trump
Most rivals, apart from former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, who had a poor showing in Iowa, and Chris Christie, who recently withdrew from the race, rallied to Trump’s defense and dismissed the investigations as politically motivated.
Trump Is “an instrument of chaos”
Voters who backed candidates other than Trump expressed exhaustion with his political approach. Cedar Rapids resident Kent Christen, who favored DeSantis, referred to Trump as “an instrument of chaos.”
New Hampshire Awaits
With the Iowa caucuses underway, the 2024 election cycle officially begins, potentially leading to another showdown between Trump and Biden. Throughout the lead-up to the first Republican contest, Trump maintained a solid lead despite a narrowing field.
Attention now turns to New Hampshire, the next Republican primary battleground.
