(IntegrityTimes.com) – The results of the Iowa caucus made clear that former President Trump is the candidate of choice for the 2024 Republican presidential nominee. Trump received 51 percent of the vote, finishing 30 percentage points ahead of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley came in third, just two points behind DeSantis. Entrepreneur and author Vivek Ramaswamy finished fourth, garnering 7.7 percent of the total votes cast. Shortly after the results were announced, Ramaswamy officially suspended his campaign.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Ramaswamy wrote that his campaign did not reach its goal during the Iowa caucus, and that “we need an America-First patriot in the White House.” He continued, writing that the voters made clear that Trump was their choice. He announced his endorsement of Trump and wrote that he would fight to make sure that he became the next president. During a speech in Des Moines, Ramaswamy told supporters that he would be campaigning with Trump the next day in New Hampshire. He also advised Haley and DeSantis to drop out and get behind Trump to defeat President Biden.
Ramaswamy made good on his word and gave an enthusiastic speech at Trump’s rally in Atkinson, New Hampshire, the following night. He compared the battle to end Biden’s hopes of a second term to 1776 for Americans. He said that the current war was not about race or politics, but rather the establishment versus regular Americans. Trump stood behind Ramaswamy, seemingly pleased by his words. He pulled him in closely after his speech, as he often does with guest speakers, offering words unheard by the crowd. Trump said that he was surprised that Ramaswamy withdrew after doing so well in Iowa but said that he was honored by his endorsement. He also hinted at Ramaswamy’s future, stating, “he’ll be working with us for a long time.” The New Hampshire primary is up next and will take place on January 23.
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