Evangelical Leader Endorses DeSantis, Sparks Feud with Trump

Bob Vander Plaats denies Trump's accusation of accepting a $95,000 donation for endorsement, calls former president a 'chump'.

Prominent Iowa evangelical leader Bob Vander Plaats endorsed Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in the 2024 Republican primary race, triggering a feud with former President Donald Trump.
Trump, who is also running in the 2024 Republican primary, accused Vander Plaats of accepting a $95,000 donation from the DeSantis campaign in exchange for his endorsement, a claim Vander Plaats denies.
Vander Plaats responded to Trump's accusations by calling him a 'chump' and stating that Iowans will 'exhibit higher standards' by choosing DeSantis.
Vander Plaats also claimed that people in an Iowa 'stronghold' he visited told him they were 'done' with Trump.
Trump has also criticized Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds for endorsing DeSantis.