Des Moines, Iowa — US Senator Joni Ernst’s annual “Roast and Ride” fundraiser has given Iowa Republicans a chance to restate their criticism of last week’s conviction of former President Trump.
Ernst said the trial has solidified support for Trump. “Stop the political persecution of Donald J. Trump,” Ernst said. Ernst, who intends to seek reelection in 2026, has said she’s open to serving in Trump’s Administration if he wins in November. Iowa GOP chairman Jeff Kaufmann kicked off Saturday’s fundraiser with a question.
Every Republican officeholder who followed Kaufmann on stage made their stance clear. Governor Kim Reynolds cited the donations the Trump campaign says were made after the verdict.
Senator Chuck Grassley called all the cases against Trump a distraction.
Texas Congressman Wesley Hunt, the event’s keynote speaker, has campaigned for Trump often. Hunt suggested the verdict has awakened a sleeping giant. “For those of you that are fearful of a revenge tour that’s exactly what we need,” Hunt said, “and on day one we need a man to step into office — on day one — to turn this whole thing around.”
Two of the four Republicans who represent Iowa in the US House also spoke at Ernst’s fundraiser. Second District Congresswoman Ashley Hinson of Marion told the crowd Trump’s conviction will backfire on Democrats.
Third District Congressman Zach Nunn of Bondurant told the crowd Republicans need to win a majority of seats in the US House in November, or Democrats will impeach Trump again.
About 700 people attended Saturday’s fundraiser for Ernst’s campaign. Ticket sales from the motorcycle ride beforehand were donated to the Iowa Veterans of Foreign Wars Foundation.
