Why I'm endorsing Ron DeSantis.

As the former co-chair for the Iowa Republican Party from 2014 to 2021, I was privileged to help lead our state through two Republican caucuses. I understand the critical role Iowa plays in putting candidates through the wringer on a national stage.

There has never been a more crucial time for Iowans to select the Republican nominee who can beat Joe Biden in 2024. Iowa, we must choose wisely.

America desperately needs a battle-tested leader who can get our country back on the right track, who fights for our shared principles and can deliver results for the people.

After thoughtful consideration and prayer, I have decided to endorse Ron DeSantis for President.

Ron DeSantis grew up in a blue-collar family, paid his way through college, volunteered to serve in the Navy and go to Iraq after 9/11, is a proud husband to Casey, and father to three young children.

He is the only candidate who has pledged to visit all of Iowa's 99 counties. (So far, he has visited 53.) While others take it for granted, DeSantis is doing what it takes to earn Iowans' support.

During COVID lockdowns across the country, DeSantis ensured Floridians could keep their jobs and businesses open, send their kids to school, and freely worship in person at church.

He signed the Heartbeat Bill into law, Florida’s strongest pro-life protections in state history, and is the only candidate in the race who has fought back against the radical left's woke agenda and won. He set the national standard to defend the innocence of our children in the classroom, eliminating Critical Race Theory and expanding school choice. He supports law enforcement, fought to expand and protect our 2nd Amendment rights, and cut taxes for Florida families.

Much like Gov. Kim Reynolds here in Iowa, DeSantis has demonstrated that he will never back down from his principles and convictions. I'm confident that President DeSantis would bring that same "service over self" leadership to the White House.

I greatly respect the Trump administration's accomplishments, but we need a new leader without constant distractions and excuses. I have heard from Iowans from every corner of the state who supported Trump through every battle, but they are ready to move on.

Certainly Trump accomplished great conservative wins, but he has now refocused his energy on petty battles like attacking Kim Reynolds and claiming her victory as his own. Iowans see straight through his blame game, and are tired of his inability to stay focused on the issues.

DeSantis is the only candidate with the courage, energy, and fortitude to end the weaponization of government, secure the border, and undo the inflation and energy crisis caused by "Bidenomics." America needs a leader who will inspire and get the job done, not point fingers when things don't go their way.

This election is too important to sit on the sidelines. Iowa Republicans must choose a candidate to beat Joe Biden and reverse our nation’s decline. Ron DeSantis is the man for the job.

I encourage Iowa Republicans to join me in supporting Ron DeSantis at your caucus site on Jan. 15, 2024.

Cody Hoefert served as the Co-Chair of the Republican Party of Iowa from 2014 to 2021.