We are used to seeing political ad leading up to an election. In 2008, candidates spent millions in Iowa promoting themselves on television, billboards and with campaign offices. However, with just 7 weeks until the caucuses, campaign ads are virtually non-existent in the QCA.
During caucus season, we expect presidential candidates to be campaigning all over Iowa, all the time. For the 2012 race, candidates are in the Hawkeye state, but not as much as previous presidential hopefuls. "I think they have a lot of states to cover, there are the 4 early states. Then we moved our caucuses up early and everyone else had to consequently move their dates up early. I think they have a lot more ground to cover," says Judy Davidson, Chairperson of the Scott County Republicans.
In a National Journal's Hotline, visits are down by more than half. Between July 1st and November 1st 2007, Huckabee, Romney and McCain visited Iowa 66 times. This time around, Romney, Perry and Cain visited Iowa 23 times. However, republican leaders are hopeful the number of visits will increase. "As we get a little bit closer to the caucuses you might see some," adds Davidson.
In addition to fewer campaign stops, there is also less T. V. time and fewer campaign offices, with most candidates choosing to have just one office in Iowa. "As you know the front runner varies week to week and I would anticipate that would probably continue," says Davidson.
As January 3rd draws closer, republican leaders say campaign visits will become crucial, because so many voters don't know who they are voting for. "I think a lot of them are still undecided. So, the more times they can come to Iowa and talk with the voters and actually visit, I think the better for the candidates," says Davidson.
