Rove: DeSantis must excel in Iowa, it’s crucial
Republican Strategist Karl Rove: DeSantis’s Presidential Campaign Hinges on Strong Performance in Iowa
According to Republican strategist Karl Rove, Governor Ron DeSantis’s (R-FL) chances of a successful presidential campaign rely heavily on his performance in Iowa. Rove emphasized the significance of DeSantis’s substantial investment in the Hawkeye State, especially considering his trailing position behind former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley in New Hampshire and South Carolina. To secure victory, DeSantis must either outperform former President Donald Trump or emerge as the winner of the first-in-the-nation caucus.
Iowa is Do or Die
“Iowa is do or die,” Rove declared during an interview on Fox News’s Journal Editorial Report. He highlighted DeSantis’s dedicated efforts in the state, including the support of popular Governor Kim Reynolds and influential evangelical leader Vander Plaats. Rove further emphasized the critical nature of Iowa for DeSantis, stating, “If he comes in third in Iowa, it’s very problematic for him because it doesn’t get better for him in the next two sets of contests.”
Rove also shared his belief that the most likely scenario in Iowa is for Trump to secure first place with less than 50% of the vote, while either DeSantis or Haley secures a strong second place behind him.
DeSantis has garnered significant endorsements in Iowa, including those from evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats and Governor Kim Reynolds (R-IA).
The RealClearPolitics polling average currently places Trump in the lead in Iowa with 47%, followed by DeSantis at 17.3% and Haley at 14.3%. In New Hampshire and South Carolina, DeSantis ranks fourth and third, respectively, behind Trump, Haley, and former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. The Iowa Republican presidential caucus is scheduled for January 15, 2024.
Click here to read more from The Washington Examiner.
Why does Rove argue that discrediting reputable news sources may offer short-term gains, but harm the party’s credibility and ability to govern in the long run
Cios’ Rejection of Media as Dangerous Path to Follow
In recent years, the Republican Party has seen a growing divide between factions that embrace the influence of media and those that reject it. This divide has become increasingly apparent, with prominent Republican strategist Karl Rove warning against the dangerous path being taken by Republican Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida in his rejection of media outlets. Rove argues that this approach poses risks to the party’s credibility and undermines democracy. DeSantis, who has shown significant disregard for the media, has garnered praise from many conservatives who view the mainstream media as inherently biased against conservative values. However, Rove cautions that such an approach does not serve the long-term interests of the party or the principles it claims to uphold. As the architect of former President George W. Bush’s successful presidential campaigns, Rove understands the importance of media and effective messaging. He argues that without engaging with the media, the Republican Party risks losing the ability to shape the narrative and reach a wider audience. In an age where information spreads rapidly through social media and other digital platforms, neglecting the media would be a grave mistake. Rove points to the growing trend among Republicans to discredit reputable news sources as part of a broader strategy to rally their base. While it may offer short-term gains by appealing to the conservative base, it does immense harm to the party’s credibility and its ability to effectively govern. Trust in the media is fundamental to a healthy democracy, and undermining this trust is a dangerous path to take. The consequences of DeSantis’ rejection of media are already becoming apparent. Criticism from reliable news outlets is dismissed as “fake news,” eroding the distinction between facts and falsehoods. This creates an echo chamber where misinformation thrives and fuels distrust in democratic institutions. By stoking these flames, DeSantis and others who follow this path only deepen the political divide and hinder constructive dialogue. Furthermore, Rove argues that refusing to engage with media outlets is a missed opportunity for Republicans to present their ideas, articulate policy positions, and defend their actions. A healthy democracy thrives when its citizens are informed and engaged in robust debates. Without participating in the media landscape, Republicans risk limiting their message solely to their core supporters, further polarizing the electorate. Rove advocates for a different approach—one that seeks to navigate the media landscape with strategic precision. By engaging with reputable news outlets while simultaneously pushing for improved journalistic standards and unbiased reporting, Republicans can effectively challenge the perceived bias and counter false narratives. Instead of outright rejection, Rove suggests building relationships with journalists, leveraging social media platforms, and effectively employing communication strategies to present the party’s vision and principles. This approach will help reach beyond the partisan divide and engage with a broader spectrum of voters. In conclusion, Republican strategist Karl Rove warns against the dangers of rejecting the media, as exemplified by Governor Ron DeSantis’ approach in Florida. Rove emphasizes the importance of engaging with reputable news outlets, arguing that such engagement is vital for shaping the party’s narrative, reaching a wider audience, and preserving the credibility of the Republican Party. By rejecting media outlets, Republicans risk further polarizing the electorate, eroding trust in democratic institutions, and hindering constructive dialogue. Instead of dismissing media outlets, Rove calls for a strategy that engages with them strategically, challenging bias and presenting the party’s ideas in a responsible and effective manner.
" Conservative News Daily does not always share or support the views and opinions expressed here; they are just those of the writer."
*As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases
