The close race between DeSantis and Haley underscored the intense competition for the position of the GOP’s primary alternative to Trump.
Haley’s well-funded campaign spent a significant $7.8 million on Iowa advertising in the last two weeks, outspending both DeSantis and Trump.
Trump, in his victory speech, acknowledged the efforts of DeSantis, Haley, and third-place finisher Vivek Ramaswamy. He emphasized the unity within the party.
Next Stop New Hampshire
The outcome allowed DeSantis to maintain a presence in the race and continue campaigning into the New Hampshire primary, where he currently trails both Haley and Trump.
DeSantis’ finance chair expressed confidence in the campaign’s ability to go beyond Iowa and compete in the upcoming Super Tuesday primaries.
This sentiment extended to the belief that Trump would still be fit to serve as president even if convicted of a crime, as indicated by 63% of respondents in the National Election Pool entrance poll.
Notably, Trump’s support among white evangelicals, a crucial demographic, soared to 53% compared to 22% in 2016.
