Iowa Representative Ashley Hinson has announced that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley will be speaking at her annual BBQ Bash. This event, held in the crucial first-in-the-nation caucus state, offers a valuable opportunity for presidential hopefuls to connect with Iowan voters.
Hinson emphasized the importance of Iowa's role in vetting presidential candidates and expressed her anticipation for DeSantis and Haley to share their visions for the country. The BBQ Bash, now in its third year, will take place on August 6th at the Hawkeye Downs Speedway and Expo Center in Cedar Rapids. The event has drawn large crowds in the past, exceeding 700 attendees in its first two years.
Hinson, who successfully flipped a Democratic district in 2020 and secured re-election in 2022, has remained neutral in the Republican primary race. She has actively encouraged all 2024 presidential candidates to visit her district in northeastern Iowa. A source close to Hinson confirmed her commitment to facilitating introductions between the candidates and Iowa voters and activists, emphasizing her neutral stance. Furthermore, Hinson is urging candidates to address the topic of education.
Last year's BBQ Bash featured Senator Tim Scott of South Carolina, another 2024 GOP contender. Hinson's proactive approach underscores the significance of Iowa in the presidential nominating process.
