Former President Donald Trump, in a fiery Iowa campaign stop, criticized Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds for endorsing Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in the upcoming 2024 GOP primary. Speaking at Ankeny on December 2, 2023, Trump claimed credit for Reynolds’ election victories in 2018 and 2022, citing his influential role.
Amid cheers from the crowd, Trump recounted Reynolds’ past electoral challenges, emphasizing his pivotal support in securing her triumphs. He recalled a challenging race against a wealthy opponent, where his endorsement played a crucial role in her victory.
Despite Reynolds’ surprising endorsement of DeSantis last month, Trump openly questioned her rationale during the rally, especially given DeSantis’ perceived polling deficit. Trump asserted that his endorsement holds the most weight, dismissing Reynolds’ support for DeSantis.
Contrary to Trump’s claims of Reynolds being the least popular governor, polling data reveals her solid standing with a +6 net approval rating and a significant +65 approval among Republicans, establishing her as a notable political figure in Iowa.
Reynolds, in her endorsement statement, emphasized the need for a leader prioritizing the country over personal interests. The endorsement, declared in early November, has set the stage for a political showdown as the DeSantis campaign intensifies efforts in Iowa, recognizing it as a crucial battleground against Trump’s influence.
As Trump plans a Cedar Rapids rally, the political drama unfolds, with the Iowa caucuses on January 15 shaping the GOP landscape for the 2024 elections. Stay tuned for the evolving narrative as the political spotlight shifts between Trump, Reynolds, and DeSantis.
