Iowa GOP's Central Committee votes to proceed with plans for straw poll

For IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 10, 2014

Contact: Charlie Szold

DES MOINES - In an unanimous 16-0 vote, the Republican Party of Iowa's Central Committee today agreed to proceed with plans for a straw poll component at its traditional August fundraiser. Exact details of the event including time, location, and structure will be determined after today's vote. 

Statement from Chairman Jeff Kaufmann: "In 2014, through extreme heat and cold, Iowans worked to elect the strongest Republican delegation we've sent to Washington in years. These are the same voters and volunteers who make our First-in-the-Nation Caucuses so special and who have traditionally made the August straw poll such an exciting experience. The Central Committee recognizes the straw poll fundraiser is not only an important organizing event for Iowa Republicans, but also provides the only opportunity during the Iowa Caucus process where candidates can speak to tens of thousands of voters in a single event. I look forward to working together with activists and candidates to ensure the 2015 Iowa Straw Poll fundraiser is a vibrant and mutually-beneficial event."

Background

The Iowa GOP has included a straw poll in its August fundraising event since 1979, when it was was won by George H.W. Bush. Past winners also include George W. Bush, Bob Dole, and Mitt Romney. 
 
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