US Republicans will campaign on similar issues

Significance

Iowa will host the first caucus to choose the Republican presidential nominee, and their visits indicate that a primary campaign featuring a former president seeking a second, non-consecutive term is not only very unusual but also creates significant challenges for other candidates running against him.

Impacts

• Republican emphasis on China will increase pressure on the White House to take further steps to limit Beijing’s influence.
• A number of major Republican donors are looking for alternatives to Trump but do not yet appear convinced by DeSantis.
• Some candidates will be running to position themselves as vice-presidential candidates or future cabinet members.