SIOUX CENTER, Iowa– Three Republican candidates captivated hundreds of citizens in northwest Iowa on Saturday with personal stories of family and faith. The congenial discussions took place at a small Christian college in Sioux Center. Despite the recent contentious debate, the candidates kept their focus on their personal stories.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley, and entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy each shared their origin stories, emphasizing the role of their families in their lives. The event was held in a rural, conservative corner of the state, which is the leadoff contest for the upcoming election calendar in about a month.
After the initial discussions, DeSantis and Ramaswamy directed their attention to Haley, indicating that they see her as a growing threat in the 2024 race. President Donald Trump, the front-runner in polls of Republicans nationwide, skipped the event. The Iowa caucuses are set for Jan. 15.
DeSantis, after speaking with the moderators, took aim at Haley’s campaign funding, claiming that she is being supported by liberal Democrats and Wall Street donors. He alleged that she is aligning herself with positions favored by these groups.
Ramaswamy defended his criticisms of Haley, asserting that he wanted to highlight the “deep ideological divide” within the Republican Party. He also pushed back against accusations that he was unfairly targeting Haley, who is the only female candidate in the race.
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“It’s part of a double requirement that individuals in this nation are ill of when it pertains to identity politics,” he stated. “The great news is – I’m not letting them get away with that.”
Haley did not talk to the media after her look.
Steve Rehder, 59, was alleviated to speak with prospects without the “crossfire.” He stated he is choosing in between supporting Haley or DeSantis, however “truly likes” Haley and her dispute efficiency.
“The method she needed to stand while she was being assaulted at the last argument. I understand she simply wished to come unglued at the guy, however she stood there,” stated the animals farmer from Hawarden.
On the phase before about 750 individuals, consisting of numerous trainees from Dordt University, each prospect talked about faith, household and politics.
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DeSantis, accompanied by his partner Casey, was joined by Haley who sat with her 25-year-old child Rena, and Ramaswamy who brought his 3-year-old son Karthik.
Feenstra expressed that this was a unique opportunity for people to hear the candidates’ ideas and positions, unlike the previous arguments that didn’t allow for genuine responses due to infighting and bickering.
Feenstra mentioned that he might be back in the race, however has not made a decision yet.
“I want them to make their own choice based on what they’re hearing,” he told reporters. “They can make that choice by themselves without some political leader telling them this is what needs to happen.”
The three candidates are making stops throughout Iowa all weekend as pressure mounts for an eye-catching performance in the caucuses.
