Trump’s grip on Republican politics is put to the test in ice-cold Iowa caucuses
- Trump is up against his one-time chief rival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley for the Republican 2024 nomination
- Forecasters warned that ‘dangerously cold wind chills’ could lead to ‘frost bite and hypothermia’ if voters are not dressed for the weather
Voting is set to begin on Monday night in icy Iowa as former US president Donald Trump eyes a victory that would send a resounding message that neither life-threatening cold nor life-changing legal trouble can slow his march toward the Republican Party’s 2024 nomination.
The Iowa caucuses, which are the opening contest in the months-long Republican presidential primary process, begin at 8pm local time. Caucus participants will gather inside more than 750 schools, churches and community centres to debate their options, in some cases for hours, before casting secret ballots.
While Trump projects confidence, his one-time chief rival, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, is fighting for his political survival in a make-or-break race for second place. Former UN ambassador Nikki Haley, the only woman in the race, stands in DeSantis’ way.
The two have competed aggressively in recent weeks to emerge as the clear alternative to the former president, who has alienated many Americans and could end up being a convicted felon by year’s end.
“For me, it’s really about character,” said Darla De Haan, a psychotherapist from Pella, explaining why she is leaning to Haley. “I want to see people who have integrity, who keep their word. … I kind of get a sense when you’re around someone, if they’re going to do what they say.”
Hans Rudin, a 49-year-old community college adviser from Council Bluffs, said he has supported Trump in the past but is now aligned with DeSantis.