Trump and DeSantis Court Iowa Voters at College Football Game
Ames, Iowa (CNN) – The annual football game between the Iowa State Cyclones and the Iowa Hawkeyes was not only a display of on-field rivalry, but also a battleground for a high-profile Republican Party showdown. Former President Donald Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis both attended the game, aiming to court voters in the key early nominating state as they compete for the GOP presidential nomination.
DeSantis, the Republican candidate closest in the polls to threatening Trump’s lead in the race, has been actively campaigning in Iowa. He has been courting key Iowans, maintaining a grueling campaign schedule with stops across the state and engaging with voters at town halls. On the other hand, Trump has opted for large rallies and appearances, such as his stop at an Iowa State University fraternity’s tailgate, instead of holding campaign events where voters can question him on the issues.
Ahead of the game, Trump made an appearance at the tailgate held by Alpha Gamma Rho, an agriculture fraternity. He was greeted with applause and cheers from the crowd, stating, “This is some turnout. I guess the youth likes Trump.” Trump interacted with the attendees, flipping a patty on the grill and tossing campaign-branded footballs into the crowd.
DeSantis attended a tailgate hosted by the Iowa State Wrestling Club, where supporters marched behind him chanting, “We want Ron!” and holding signs provided by Never Back Down, the super PAC backing his presidential bid. DeSantis has relied on the political action committee for planning many of his Iowa visits, a role traditionally handled by campaigns.
When asked how he differentiates his message from Trump’s, DeSantis referred to the former president’s legal troubles and continued focus on the 2020 election results. He positioned himself as a candidate focused on more substantive issues and emphasized the importance of focusing on the future of the country.
During the game, Trump sat in a box suite while attendees attempted to get his attention. He left just after halftime, mobbed by a crowd excited to see him off. In contrast, DeSantis sat in the stands with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and US Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks.
DeSantis expressed optimism about his chances of winning the Iowa caucuses in January, stating that people are recognizing the effectiveness of his campaign efforts. He cited the support he receives from people who appreciate his presence and engagement in Iowa.
Other Republican presidential hopefuls, including Vivek Ramaswamy, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, and former Alabama Gov. Asa Hutchinson, were also at the stadium, engaging with tailgaters and presenting their pitches to potential voters.
The Iowa State-Iowa football game served as a platform for Trump and DeSantis to connect with voters and showcase their campaigns. As the race for the GOP presidential nomination intensifies, both candidates are vying for support in this crucial early primary state.
Original Source: [CNN](https://www.cnn.com/politics/article/trump-desantis-iowa-football-game/index.html)
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