In less than 24 hours, the Iowa caucuses will kick off the 2024 presidential race, marking an important milestone in the primary season. As the opening contest of Primary 24 approaches, the candidates are making their final pitches to voters all across Iowa. However, this year's caucuses are facing some unique challenges, including a blizzard in the final days of the campaign and record-breaking cold temperatures expected during the event.
Several significant endorsements have been announced ahead of the caucuses. Florida Senator Marco Rubio has thrown his support behind the former president, instead of endorsing his home state Governor Ron DeSantis. Additionally, former candidate and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and former Maryland Governor Larry Hogan have both endorsed Nikki Haley. A recent polling from the Des Moines Register shows Haley trailing behind the former president but ahead of DeSantis. The poll also indicates a significant lead for the former president, with 88% of his supporters saying they are extremely or very enthusiastic, compared to 62% and 39% for DeSantis and Haley, respectively.
The Trump campaign is emphasizing the importance of turnout in its closing message to Iowans. Despite several campaign events being canceled due to the adverse weather conditions, the former president recently spoke for nearly two hours, highlighting the need for Iowans to show up and caucus. While jokingly acknowledging the cold weather, Trump expressed concern about voter turnout and urged his supporters to make their voices heard. His campaign has been actively reaching out to individuals who have supported Trump in the past but have never caucused before, aiming to encourage their participation.
Although recent polls indicate a comfortable lead for the former president, the Trump campaign remains cautious about the potential impact of the weather on voter turnout. They are particularly concerned about the turnout of individuals who have never caucused before, as they need a significant margin of victory to solidify their position and set the tone for the primary season. Additionally, they aim to halt any momentum gained by GOP rivals, especially Nikki Haley in New Hampshire.
As the countdown to the Iowa caucuses nears its end, all eyes are on the weather and its potential impact on turnout. Tomorrow night's caucuses will determine not only the allocation of delegates but also shape the primary season's narrative. The upcoming results will be closely watched by candidates, strategists, and political observers who are eager to discern the trajectory of the 2024 presidential race.
