Donald Trump Takes Aim at GOP Rival Ron DeSantis at Iowa Republican Dinner

Former President Donald J. Trump made his presence felt at an Iowa Republican dinner on Friday, taking aim at his leading challenger, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. The event featured 13 candidates for the Republican nomination, but it was Trump who stole the show with his direct attack on DeSantis. Trump referred to DeSantis as an “establishment globalist” and mocked him with the nickname “DeSanctimonious,” which was well-received by the crowd. In contrast, DeSantis did not mention Trump at all during his speech. The event highlighted Trump’s continued hold over Republican voters, despite his loss in 2020 and the criminal charges he is facing. While some candidates dared to criticize Trump, they were met with boos and opposition from the crowd. The Iowa caucuses will be a crucial test for the Republican candidates, and Trump’s legal troubles may provide an opening for his rivals. However, for now, Trump remains the frontrunner in Iowa polls.