Tim Scott’s likability is fueling his rise. But how high can he climb? After two hours at the Iowa State Fair spent posing for photos, glad-handing attendees visiting the livestock barn and indulging in carnival games and the famous pork chop grill, Tim Scott was heading for the exits when he stopped to meet a group of voters.
The South Carolina senator and Republican presidential candidate had been greeting voters throughout the day, many of whom enthusiastically thanked him for running.
Among this group, however, were some people who might otherwise cast aside the chance to meet any other Republican candidate. Yet they eagerly approached Scott in the middle of the fair’s main thoroughfare.
“I’m actually a Democrat,” one voter said as he shook the senator’s hand.
“Well, that’s OK, I’ll still be your president,” Scott replied. “When you need something, call the White House, and I’ll be happy to help.”
Moments later, another man approached Scott, this time a Republican, albeit one who appeared to be leaning toward one of Scott’s rivals in the GOP field.
“I know I got a Trump shirt on, but it doesn’t matter,” the man said. “I like you, you’re a good guy.”
“That’s OK, we’re all Americans,” Scott replied.
In the early stages of a primary race that has otherwise been defined by former President Donald Trump’s legal drama, bitter attacks between rivals and warnings over the future of the Republican Party, Scott has distinguished himself by projecting a hopeful and rosy vision of America. And as the Republican field turns its attention to the first presidential primary debate in Milwaukee next week, voters appear to be giving Scott consideration. In a New York Times/Siena College poll conducted at the end of July, Scott had the support of 9% of likely Republican voters in Iowa, putting him in third place behind Trump and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, but hovering above a wide field of candidates similarly angling to pitch themselves as alternatives to Trump. ............
https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/16/politics/tim-scott-iowa/index.html
