Branstad predicts wide-open 2012 GOP presidential race in Iowa

Gov. Terry Branstad said Monday he believes the 2012 Republican presidential race will be the most wide open, competitive battle that Iowa has seen since it became the nation's leadoff state in the political selection process.

Although the GOP field is just beginning to take shape, Branstad said he foresees a big turnout when Iowa Republicans make their first-in-the-nation selections next year in the precinct caucuses. He said he expects interest will grow and he believes former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee's decision not to run for president this time after winning the 2008 Iowa caucuses will create jockeying among the Republicans – especially the social conservatives -- vying to woo his former supporters.

“Iowa is a full-spectrum state, and everyone in Iowa – including and especially evangelicals – wants someone who will articulate a message of job creation and slashing the federal debt,” said Branstad. “I have traveled to all of Iowa's 99 counties, and the prevailing questions are on the debt and job creation. I want to welcome all current and potential 2012 presidential candidates to campaign here, meet with Iowans and participate in the full caucus process.”

During his weekly news conference, Branstad took issue with comments made in a weekend editorial by former New Hampshire GOP Chairman Fergus Cullen, who stated, "Iowa Republicans have marginalized themselves to the point where competing in Iowa has become optional."

Branstad nothing could be further from the truth, especially given that an Iowa GOP straw poll is 89 days away that will be the first test of organization strength and support in Iowa.

“Mr. Cullen could not be more wrong about Iowa,” said Branstad. “I think that as candidates campaign here, they will see a vibrant, growing Republican Party of Iowa. It is a wide open race, and we will welcome all candidates who participate here.” The Iowa governor called Cullen's comments “off base” and predicted Iowa Republicans “will prove him wrong” in the upcoming campaign.