On August 12, 2023, several notable events took place at the Iowa State Fair, capturing the attention of both local and national media. The fair, known for being an important stop for presidential candidates, attracted prominent figures such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is also a 2024 Republican presidential candidate.[0]
One of the highlights of the day was Governor DeSantis speaking with Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA) during her “Fair-Side Chats” event.[1] However, the event was not without its challenges, as hecklers interrupted DeSantis during his speech.[2] This incident showcased the intense political climate and polarization present in the country.
Another incident that drew attention was a plane flying over the fairgrounds with a banner that read “Be Likable, Ron!” This playful trolling gesture aimed at DeSantis highlighted the importance of likeability in politics and the challenges candidates face in building a positive public image.
These events at the Iowa State Fair shed light on DeSantis’ standing in the race for the Republican nomination. While he is currently trailing former President Donald Trump in both state and national polls, DeSantis remains Trump’s principal rival for the nomination. Despite trailing behind, DeSantis has a dedicated base of supporters, including influential figures like conservative Iowa talk show host Steve Deace, who formally endorsed DeSantis on Friday.[3]
The Iowa State Fair is a crucial platform for candidates to connect with voters and make their case for why they should be chosen as the Republican nominee. Iowa holds the first-in-the-nation caucuses, making it an important state for candidates to gain momentum and build support.
As the 2024 general election approaches, several presidential hopefuls have made their way to Iowa to engage with voters and gain momentum.[4] The fair provides an opportunity for candidates to connect with voters on a personal level and showcase their policies and visions for the future.
With the current political landscape highly polarized and competitive, candidates like DeSantis face significant challenges in standing out and appealing to a broad range of voters. The Iowa State Fair serves as a microcosm of the larger political scene, highlighting the importance of likeability, public perception, and the ability to connect with voters on a personal level.
As the day unfolded at the Iowa State Fair, it became apparent that the road to the Republican nomination would be a challenging one for Governor DeSantis. While he may be trailing behind Trump in the polls, DeSantis has a dedicated base of supporters and remains a formidable contender in the race.
In the coming months, the political landscape will continue to evolve, and candidates will have to navigate the challenges of building support and gaining momentum. The Iowa State Fair serves as a critical juncture in the campaign trail, where candidates must make a lasting impression on voters and set themselves apart from their competitors.
As the 2024 Presidential election approaches, all eyes will be on the candidates as they traverse the country, engaging with voters, and making their case for why they should be the next President of the United States. The Iowa State Fair, with its rich history and significance in American politics, will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the race for the Republican nomination and the overall trajectory of the election.
0. “Governor DeSantis on Comment of Having Governor Kim Reynolds as Potential Running Mate” Raccoon Valley Radio, 11 Aug. 2023, https://www.raccoonvalleyradio.com/2023/08/11/governor-desantis-on-comment-of-having-governor-kim-reynolds-as-potential-running-mate/
1. “Ron DeSantis says that Donald Trump’s ‘attacks’ on Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds ‘are totally out of bounds'” Fox News, 12 Aug. 2023, https://www.foxnews.com/video/6333286133112
2. “Video Shows Ron DeSantis Hecklers Forcibly Removed During Event” Newsweek, 13 Aug. 2023, https://www.newsweek.com/video-shows-ron-desantis-heckler-forcibly-removed-during-speech-1819361
3. “Conservative Iowa radio host Steve Deace endorses DeSantis” The Hill, 11 Aug. 2023, https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4149354-conservative-iowa-radio-host-steve-deace-endorses-desantis/
4. “Conservative talk show host Steve Deace endorses Gov. Ron DeSantis” Des Moines Register, 11 Aug. 2023, https://www.desmoinesregister.com/story/news/elections/presidential/caucus/2023/08/11/conservative-commentator-steve-deace-endorses-gov-ron-desantis/70576087007/
