DES MOINES, Iowa — The Iowa Republican caucuses are just around the corner, and while former President Donald Trump maintains a significant lead, a growing number of GOP caucusgoers are exploring alternatives. This shift in support could have a significant impact on the race for second place.
Changing Tides
A recent NBC News/Des Moines Register/Mediacom poll revealed that while 65% of likely GOP caucusgoers have remained loyal to their first-choice candidate throughout the entire campaign, 27% have had a change of heart and now support a different candidate. Among those who have switched their allegiance, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy are emerging as the leading options.
Larry Gagen, 54, who initially supported Trump but is now planning to caucus for Haley in Dallas County, expressed concerns about Trump’s ability to devote time to the state. Gagen said, “I still like [Trump], but I think I’m just worried about all the trials and having to go to these events. And, you know, I think it’s going to take up a lot of his time.”
Similarly, Mary Davie, 59, plans to caucus for DeSantis in Mills County, citing the need for a viable candidate who can win an election. She said, “I supported Trump … but he was doomed from the start. We have to look at somebody who can actually win.”
Exploring New Options
Some caucusgoers have been anti-Trump from the beginning and have shifted their support among his opponents. Maison Bleam, 34, initially backed DeSantis but is now planning to caucus for Haley in Polk County. Bleam explained, “I started to really think about who has what I feel is the best type of presence for international relations and who has some of that skill set in their background. I’ve just been very impressed with her decorum, demeanor, and delivery.”
Quinn Dahlhauser, 41, plans to caucus for DeSantis in Kossuth County after considering all of the non-Trump candidates. Dahlhauser believes that DeSantis has a track record of getting things done and possesses moral virtue, which makes him an ideal choice.
Making Informed Decisions
Joe Cotton, 59, who is planning to caucus for Haley in Dallas County, was initially torn between Haley and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott. Now firmly behind Haley, Cotton appreciates her executive and foreign policy experience.
Cotton is adamantly against backing Trump and caucusing for DeSantis or Ramaswamy. He stated, “I don’t think [Trump] is a real conservative or a Republican. I just think Ron DeSantis is too much of ‘Trump-lite’ and Vivek Ramaswamy is a ‘Trump-lite’ wannabe.”
As the Iowa caucuses approach, the shift in support among GOP caucusgoers showcases their desire for a candidate who can bring something different to the table. Whether it’s concerns about Trump’s availability or the search for a fresh face, the race for second place remains wide open.
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