Trump says Iowa governor began 'retirement tour early' amid reports she's endorsing DeSantis

Reynolds had said earlier this year that she would remain neutral in the 2024 GOP primary.

Published: November 5, 2023 12:08pm

Former President Donald Trump slammed Iowa Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds on Sunday amid reports that she is going to endorse Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis in the 2024 Republican presidential primary.

"Reynolds apparently has begun her retirement tour early as she clearly does not have any ambition for higher office," Trump said Sunday about the endorsement reports.

Reynolds had said earlier this year that she would remain neutral in the 2024 GOP primary. However, multiple media reports Sunday stated that Reynolds is going to endorse DeSantis at a pre-debate rally in Des Moines, Iowa, on Monday.

The Iowa Caucus this January is set to be the first GOP nominating race, and a poll last week indicated that Trump is significantly ahead of DeSantis in the state at 43% to 16%.

Trump also said that Reynold's endorsement is unlikely to make a difference, as a poll from the firm, co/efficient, showed that 72% of respondents said her stance will not impact who they support.

He also said he was "directly responsible" for making Reynolds governor.

Meanwhile, Trump has received endorsements from other prominent Iowa officials, including Republican Attorney General Brenna Bird.

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