In the latest RealClearPolitics average, Donald Trump has a commanding lead in the Republican primary race in Iowa, holding a 29.7-point advantage over his nearest competitor.
Combining data from three recent polls, Trump has secured 47% support from Iowa voters. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis trails significantly with 17.3%, followed closely by former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley at 14.3%. Senator Tim Scott from South Carolina, who had 6% support, has withdrawn from the race earlier this week.
With the Iowa Republican presidential caucuses approaching in less than two months, Trump’s strong position in the state is evident.
However, Trump’s impressive lead in Iowa pales in comparison to his national figures. Across the country, he garners 59.1% support, creating a vast 45-point gap over DeSantis, who stands at 14.1%.
In the contest for the second spot, Haley has been gradually narrowing DeSantis’ lead. Back in May, DeSantis enjoyed a 28% support rate in Iowa, with Haley at a distant 5.5%.
Recently, Haley’s campaign has gained momentum thanks to the backing of a group of GOP donors. These donors, who were either supporting Scott or had been undecided, have now thrown their support behind Haley.
Meanwhile, DeSantis secured a significant endorsement from Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds. Both share similar stances on 6-week abortion laws, an issue they believe could help them close the gap with Trump. DeSantis has implemented such a law in Florida, a move Trump criticized as a “terrible thing.”
