Republican presidential candidates Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis were present at a town hall event in Iowa, where they were asked about DeSantis' recent comment regarding the primary process. DeSantis had stated that while Iowa goes first, New Hampshire, 'corrects it,' sparking controversy and accusations of disrespect towards Iowans.
Responding to the question, DeSantis defended his comment, emphasizing that it was intended as lighthearted banter. He explained that as a representative of South Carolina, an early state in the primary process, he had always recognized the unique roles of Iowa and New Hampshire. According to DeSantis, the three states, including South Carolina, had a longstanding pact to maintain their respective positions in the primary process. He further highlighted that the states playfully poke fun at each other, as evidenced by the friendly rivalry between Iowa and New Hampshire.
