"Iowa Caucus Kingmaker Backs Ron DeSantis for President"

Bob Vander Plaats, a prominent Iowa Christian evangelical leader and "Iowa Caucus kingmaker," has endorsed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis for president in the 2024 election. Vander Plaats praised DeSantis as a bold and courageous leader who has proven his ability to win elections. This endorsement comes after DeSantis secured the endorsement of Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, marking the first time since 1996 that a sitting Iowa governor has endorsed a GOP presidential primary candidate. Vander Plaats' past endorsements have had success in the Iowa caucuses, and he believes DeSantis has a strong chance of winning if he can rally support from Iowans open to choosing someone other than former President Donald Trump.