Trump isn’t slowing down whatsoever.
Former President Trump is gearing up for a decisive victory in the Republican primary, aiming for an early triumph in Iowa on Monday. Trump has set high expectations in the Hawkeye State, where polls indicate a substantial lead of 36 percentage points over his closest rival, according to averages from The Hill/Decision Desk HQ.
The significance of Iowa cannot be overstated, particularly for Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, who has invested significant resources, secured endorsements, and extensively engaged with voters across all 99 counties. A strong second-place finish is deemed crucial for DeSantis, while former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley places greater emphasis on New Hampshire, where she sees an opportunity for a competitive race.
Trump’s dominance in Iowa could pave the way for another triumph in New Hampshire, according to strategists. Winning both states would signify solid control and complete dominance over the Republican Party, with potential implications for the entire primary race.
In 2016, Trump finished second in Iowa, but this time, he and his campaign are more organized and have won over key evangelical voters. The December Des Moines Register poll, considered reliable, showed Trump with 51 percent support, and 70 percent of his supporters expressed unwavering commitment. A decisive victory in Iowa could position Trump as a formidable force heading into subsequent primaries.
However, if Trump’s margin of victory in Iowa is smaller than expected, it may signal a more competitive primary, especially if voters coalesce behind an alternative candidate. Analysts are closely watching whether Trump crosses the 50-percent threshold, indicating the willingness of voters to consider alternatives.
During recent events in Iowa, Trump enjoyed a friendly audience, contrasting with a CNN debate where Haley and DeSantis spent little time attacking him. Trump’s absence from debates has not seemed to impact his campaign significantly, with rivals having to carefully navigate criticism of the former president without alienating his supporters.
Looking ahead, Trump plans to shift his focus to New Hampshire after the Iowa caucuses, recognizing the different dynamics of the more libertarian state. The outcome of the early primaries will likely shape the narrative for the ongoing nomination process, with potential implications extending well beyond Super Tuesday.