Titans of the Republican Party and a few extras are in Iowa to test the faith of the conservative electorate as the Faith and Freedom Coalition Spring Kickoff gets underway in Des Moines. Confirmed to speak at the event are Former Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson, presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, former Vice President Mike Pence, Former Democratic Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, and Senator Tim Scott (R-SC). Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will also be there.
At the time of this publication, former President Donald Trump was to give his remarks remotely.
Historically, the event allows a grip and grin for politicians to gin up support and sway fence-sitters to hop down into the political fray. The invitation on Facebook explains, “Enjoy fellowship – and new connections – with Christian patriots like you from across America, who share your commitment to restoring a pro-faith, pro-family majority in Congress and across America.”
Iowa Poised to Influence
Iowa hosts the first presidential primary for the Republican Party and it is well known to be a reliable indicator of how the rest of the campaigns unfold – except in 2016 when the electorate selected Texas Sen. Ted Cruz over Trump.
Donald Trump (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)
If polls tell us anything, former President Trump is the leader heading into the 2024 Republican presidential primaries, with undeclared DeSantis, a close second. The only question that really matters is which candidate is most able to defeat President Joe Biden. So, Iowa is trying to set the tone this weekend.
Baptist News Global executive director Mark Wingfield recently found it ironic that such an organization will host Donald Trump as a keynote speaker at its upcoming spring meeting.” A 34-count indictment from Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg may have prompted Wingfield’s cynicism.
Although the Coalition vows it is a non-partisan organization, webpage guidelines suggest a heavy evangelical presence:
“We are a non-profit organization that seeks to make a difference in the public arena regarding the issues that matter most. We stand for integrity in government, high moral values, constitutional authority, and Christian principles. Our purpose is to educate and influence voters and politicians to keep their commitment to both liberty and law; that America may continue to be one nation under God.”
Ralph Reed founded the National Faith and Freedom Coalition to introduce the Tea Party movement to Christian voters first and other issues second. It is now a fundraising juggernaut for core family and moral values throughout the state, local, and national governing bodies. Those attending will hear the top Republican leaders, enjoy a buffet supper provided by Chick-fil-A, and meet and greet influencers and fundraisers. There are no drag queen shows on the agenda for entertainment purposes.
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