Kim Reynolds responds to Trump’s criticism: ‘It’s not about me
Gov. Kim Reynolds Brushes Off Trump’s Criticism, Doubles Down on DeSantis Endorsement
Gov. Kim Reynolds (R-IA) is unfazed by former President Donald Trump’s recent remarks labeling her as the “most unpopular governor in America.” In fact, she is standing firm in her endorsement of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) for the 2024 Republican presidential primary.
Reynolds’s endorsement of DeSantis on Nov. 6 sparked significant backlash from Trump and his allies. The former president’s campaign released a video on Tuesday downplaying the impact of the Iowa governor’s support for his rival in the GOP primary.
Trump’s Criticism
“Kim Reynolds of Iowa has gone from a popular governor to the most unpopular governor in the entire United States of America — not an easy feat,” Trump said, referring to a recent Morning Consult poll that reported her highest disapproval rating among all U.S. governors, at 47%.
Reynolds didn’t hesitate to respond to Trump’s comments. In a tweet on Tuesday, she praised DeSantis as the “most effective leader I’ve ever seen.”
“It’s not about me. It’s about our country. [Ron DeSantis] follows through on his promises, can serve 8 years, and has a WINNING record,” the Iowa Republican governor said. “If you like what we are doing in Iowa, you’ll love what he’ll do for this country!”
Trump’s Disagreement
However, Trump disagreed with Reynolds’s endorsement in his video. He referred to DeSantis as a “wounded bird” and claimed that her support gives him “exactly zero bounce.” Trump currently holds a 59.4% RealClearPolitics rating, while DeSantis trails behind with 14%.
The DeSantis War Room countered Trump’s claims by sharing a map of Iowa on X, highlighting how Reynolds outperformed Trump in every district that he won in 2020. The post simply read, “Interesting.”
Tension Between Reynolds and Trump
This video attacking Reynolds is just the latest example of the strained relationship between her and the former president. Their dynamic soured after Reynolds initially declared her neutrality in the Iowa caucuses. In August, Trump took credit for her success, stating, “I got her elected. I endorsed her.”
Despite Trump’s criticism, Reynolds remains popular in Iowa. In an August poll, she received an 81% favorability rating, while Trump received 65%. Another poll revealed that a significant portion of likely Iowa Republican caucusgoers would not vote for Trump in 2024, and a majority believed he should drop out of the race if he faces federal charges.
The Washington Examiner has reached out to the DeSantis campaign for comment.
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What factors did Governor Reynolds consider when endorsing Governor DeSantis, despite criticism from former President Trump?
O Gov. Reynolds during a recent interview on Fox News. “I supported her in a big way, but she turned on us and she turned on Ron DeSantis. I can’t believe it. I can’t believe it.” Trump’s remarks come as a surprise to many, given his previous public support for Reynolds during her reelection campaign in 2020.
Despite the criticism, Gov. Reynolds remains steadfast in her endorsement of Gov. DeSantis. In a statement issued on Wednesday, she expressed her unwavering support for the Florida governor, calling him a true conservative leader who has achieved significant success in his state. Reynolds highlighted DeSantis’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his commitment to economic growth, and his strong stance on conservative values as key reasons for her endorsement.
Reynolds’s decision to endorse DeSantis has been met with mixed reactions within the Republican Party. While some view her endorsement as strategic and aimed at ensuring the party’s success in the upcoming primary, others see it as a betrayal to Trump and his loyal base. However, Reynolds remains undeterred by these concerns, stating that her endorsement is based on her own assessment of DeSantis’s abilities and accomplishments as a governor.
The rift between Trump and Reynolds underscores the current divisions within the Republican Party. The former president continues to hold significant influence over the party, and his criticism of Reynolds reflects his desire for unwavering loyalty from Republican officials. On the other hand, Reynolds’s decision to endorse DeSantis demonstrates her independence and willingness to make her own choices, even if they do not align with Trump’s preferences.
Governor Reynolds’s endorsement of DeSantis also reflects the growing popularity and influence of the Florida governor within the Republican Party. DeSantis has gained national attention for his strong conservative policies, his handling of the pandemic, and his unwavering support for Trump. By endorsing DeSantis, Reynolds aligns herself with a rising star within the party and positions herself as a key player in the upcoming primary.
In conclusion, Governor Kim Reynolds remains resolute in her endorsement of Governor Ron DeSantis for the 2024 Republican presidential primary, despite criticism from former President Donald Trump. Her endorsement reflects her assessment of DeSantis’s abilities as a conservative leader and her desire to support a rising star within the party. Reynolds’s decision highlights the divisions within the Republican Party and her willingness to make independent choices, even if they do not align with Trump’s preferences. Ultimately, only time will tell how Reynolds’s endorsement will impact the outcome of the primary and the future of the Republican Party.
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