Ames Straw Poll Will be Telling

If it hasn't already, Presidential politics will kick into high gear August 13.  That is the date of the Ames Straw Poll, held on the campus of Iowa State University.

Candidates are already preparing for the big event.

In a bit of a surprise, Texas Rep. Ron Paul has won the rights for the premier lot at the Ames Republican Presidential Straw Poll, set for August 13.

The Texas Republican and current Republican presidential candidate purchased the key spot with a $31,000 payment, outbidding rivals.

“The congressman is interested in getting in front of Iowans,” said A.J. Spiker, vice chairman of Mr. Paul’s Iowa campaign. “He realizes Iowa is extremely important to the presidential cycle and that Iowans have a very special position to the presidential process.”

Mr. Paul’s bid allows his supporters to show support for Mr. Paul’s presidential campaign outside of the Iowa State University arena where the poll, which serves as both a political convention and a major poll, takes place.

The bidding for the polling location comes as Mr. Paul performed poorly in a Des Moines Register Poll released Sunday. The Texas Republican received just 7 percent support, a figure in line with recent polling data.

Looks like there are more question surrounding Newt Gingrich's off again, on again campaign.
Gingrich, who was viewed as a serious contender for the nomination, announced Sunday that his campaign would not compete in the Ames Straw Poll, a sign that Mr. Gingrich’s presidential campaign may be on its last heels. The Georgia Republican has experienced a string of departures from key campaign staff in recent weeks and is said to be struggling to raise funds from supporters.

Look for candidates Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Mitt Romney and Tim Pawlenty to put a lot of effort into performing well in Ames.