GOP leaders: Straw Poll is a ‘tradition worth supporting’

Dear candidates and potential candidates,

As some of the most active and engaged Republicans in Iowa, we are writing to urge you to participate in the Iowa Straw Poll.

The Straw Poll is a political tradition stretching back to 1979. Many of us remember attending as children, or bringing our own children along while we participated in this grassroots event. In the past, the Straw Poll has drawn more than 20,000 caucus-going Iowa activists, which would make it the largest political gathering in the country. It’s an incredible opportunity for us to meet the men and women running for president, but also an opportunity for you to meet a significant portion of eventual caucus attendees.

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While in the past there have been allegations of “pay to play” at the event, the Republican Party of Iowa has taken the necessary steps to update and improve the event. Now the only cost you must incur to participate is the plane ticket to Iowa.

Recently you might have seen some odd accusations leveled at the Straw Poll. Some say it’s an “establishment” ploy, while others say it’s an event dominated by only the most conservative. Neither accusation is accurate: The Iowa Straw Poll is a grassroots event beloved and revered by Iowa Republicans across the political spectrum. All who participate have a fair chance at victory.

The Iowa Straw Poll is a tradition worth supporting and one grassroots activists will fight to preserve. Fortune favors the bold. We will be in Boone on Aug. 8 and hope to see you there as well.

— Will Rogers, Polk County chairman, Cindy Golding, Linn County chairwoman, and 154 other Republican Party leaders from 92 counties