Republican Congressman Steve King of Iowa endorsed Ted Cruz for president on Monday.
King, an outspoken conservative who represents the 4th District of the Hawkeye State, could play a large role in mobilizing Iowans to caucus for the Texas senator next year.
“We have a nation to save and it’s important that we get to that here in Iowa,” King said from Des Moines. “I believe Ted Cruz is the candidate who is the answer to my prayers … who will restore the soul of America.”
In 2007, King endorsed the late Fred Thompson for president. Following Thompson’s failed campaign, King made no endorsement before the 2012 Iowa caucus. King’s support for Cruz at this stage of the presidential race could go along way in determining other candidates’ strategy to amass conservative support throughout Iowa. It may also help Cruz unite Tea Party voters in the Midwest.
King’s decision to make an endorsement now may have been motivated by his personal friendship with Cruz and that Jeff King, the congressman’s son, helps run a super PAC for Cruz. The congressman also cited immigration reform, opposition to Obamacare, and a strong national defense that can defeat Islamic terrorism as chief among his criterion for who he wants to be the next president.
