Trump Snubs Randy Feenstra in Clive Visit
DES MOINES – Donald Trump delivered a presidential-level snub to “absent congressman” Randy Feenstra today by refusing to give him a speaking slot at his Clive rally, which the rest of Iowa’s Congressional delegation got, let alone make an endorsement for his campaign for governor. Trump stressed the importance of the midterms in his speech, notably leaving out the governor’s race when he said “we have really great candidates, again, Senate and House.” Trump has already endorsed candidates in other competitive races in Iowa and also declined to endorse Feenstra in his visit in July.
Despite Feenstra bragging about his role as a “key author” of D.C. Republicans’ deeply unpopular budget law that jacks up costs, threatens health care for 106,700 Iowans, and puts at least 20 rural hospitals on the brink of closure, Trump declined to back Feenstra’s no-show and “100% establishment” campaign.
This major snub comes as a MAGA grassroots group in Iowa is circulating a petition begging Trump to endorse anyone but “absent congressman” Feenstra. Many of the Republicans who signed the petition are current and former elected officials, influential activists, and county party chairs, who said that Feenstra isn’t a “worthy candidate” or a “real, true MAGA conservative.” The petition has garnered over 370 signatures.
No-show Feenstra has been taking heat from his opponents and from the Republican grassroots for bailing on events with the rest of the primary field, including tonight’s GOP gubernatorial debate — and it’s even caused some to question his ability to win a general election. Iowa farmers also put Feenstra on blast for kicking the can down the road on E15.
From Iowa Democratic Party spokesperson Terra Hernandez:
“Despite Randy Feenstra bending over backwards to champion an extreme agenda from D.C. that threatens our economy and health care for tens of thousands of Iowans, it hasn’t been enough to win over the MAGA movement. Amid Feenstra’s struggles to earn the trust of the party faithful, Trump wants nothing to do with his flailing campaign. Trump is the latest, but not the last Republican to write Feenstra off as a failed creature of the Washington swamp.”
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