Last updated on November 10th, 2023 at 03:42 am
DES MOINES – Governor Kim Reynolds of Iowa recently announced her plan to host “Fair-Side Chats” with Republican candidates for President at the upcoming Iowa State Fair. The event aims to go beyond typical campaign issues and provide fairgoers with an opportunity to see the candidates in a more personal light.
Reynolds’ campaign announced Monday on Fox News that she is inviting all 2024 GOP presidential hopefuls for a “fair-side” chat in the lead-off caucus state.
The interviews will take place at JR’s South Pork Ranch and will be scheduled throughout the Iowa State Fair Aug. 10-20.
Importance of “Fair-Side Chats”:
The one-on-one style interviews in the “Fair-Side Chats” will offer a unique chance for fairgoers to connect with the presidential candidates beyond their political campaigns. According to Governor Reynolds’ campaign, these interviews will delve deeper into understanding who the candidates really are, allowing voters to make informed decisions.
“The interviews will go beyond just the issues of a presidential campaign and allow fairgoers to see who the candidates really are,” said a news release from Reynolds’ campaign.
Inclusion of Former President Donald Trump:
Despite recent criticisms from former President Donald Trump, Governor Reynolds has invited him to participate in the “Fair-Side Chats.” Trump previously criticized Reynolds for remaining neutral in the 2024 primary.
“Every candidate has been invited, including former President Donald Trump,” confirmed Governor Reynolds.
In response to Trump’s criticisms, Governor Reynolds reaffirmed her stance of staying neutral in the 2024 Republican presidential race and expressed her openness to appearing with Trump at a future event.
“I’m absolutely open to appearing with Trump at a ‘Fair-Side Chat.’ It’s a great way for Iowans to see kind of a different side of our candidates,” said Governor Reynolds.
Reynolds’ Stance on Potential Trump Charges:
Regarding Trump’s “target letter” of potentially facing federal charges in connection to the January 6, 2021 riots at the U.S. Capitol, Governor Reynolds declined to weigh in, stating that she hasn’t had a chance to review the matter.
"I haven't even had a chance to look at that," said Governor Reynolds. "It seems to be a pattern with what we see coming out of this administration, but I haven’t had a chance to even look at it to comment."
Potential Impact on the 2024 GOP Presidential Race:
The “Fair-Side Chats” at the Iowa State Fair hold significant potential to influence the 2024 GOP Presidential Race. By providing fairgoers with a closer look at the candidates and allowing them to engage in personal interactions, the event could play a pivotal role in shaping public perceptions and candidate support.
Governor Kim Reynolds’ “Fair-Side Chats” with Republican Presidential Candidates at the Iowa State Fair promise to be an insightful and influential event in the lead-off caucus state. With the inclusion of former President Donald Trump and the potential implications on the 2024 GOP Presidential Race, these interviews hold the potential to sway public opinions and contribute to the political landscape leading up to the Republican caucuses on Jan. 15, 2024