LISTEN HERE:
On Saturday, 45th President Donald Trump, a leading Republican contender for 2024, visited the Iowa State Fair Grounds in Des Moines, drawing massive crowds, significantly overshadowing other GOP figures, notably Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) who was present at the same venue.
Thousands gathered to greet Trump, setting a notable attendance record at the fair.
Throughout his visit, Trump interacted with the masses by shaking hands, signing autographs, and making quick remarks.
The Steer N Stein hosted the former president and a considerable number of the Florida GOP delegation where he made a brief speech.
Images and videos showcasing the size and enthusiasm of Trump’s support base flooded social media. Rep. Carlos Gimenez (R-FL) who was with Trump tweeted, “The support is absolutely overwhelming! Iowa is TRUMP COUNTRY.”
Outside the packed event. There is no more room inside and there are thousands still outside just to see and hear Trump.
Iowa is Trump Country! pic.twitter.com/2SoSnRm8D1
— MAGS (@TAftermath2020) August 12, 2023
Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (R-FL) chimed in about the massive turnout, urging Iowans to support Trump in the upcoming election.
In contrast, Gov. Ron DeSantis faced challenges with vocal Trump supporters expressing their preference for Trump as the governor walked by.
There was an awkward moment when someone mistakenly referred to him as “Rick.”
In a conversation with The Daily Mail, Trump suggested that due to DeSantis’s less than stellar poll figures and reception, he should consider withdrawing from the race.
When asked about the possibility of a debate with DeSantis, Trump reiterated his view that DeSantis should step out of contention.
Other GOP figures, like businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley (R-SC), also had a more muted presence compared to Trump.
During his speech at the Steer N Stein, Trump remarked about the modest turnout for his rivals.
Overall, the event signaled Trump’s substantial influence in Iowa, suggesting that other GOP contenders might face significant challenges trying to gain traction in the state.
“Iowa is sick of Trump’s mean tweets!”
Iowa: pic.twitter.com/JRWGTOzS6C
— Jack Poso ?? (@JackPosobiec) August 12, 2023