- June 16, 2015 -
Donald Trump Jets Into Iowa and Starts Firing at Republican Rivals
It was classic Trump, as he showcased his business success and what he described as his instinctive ability to predict the future. He also showed an eagerness to criticize his fellow Republicans running for president.
"I'm more disappointed with the Republicans because they are gutless," Trump said, after he asked how his party can beat Hillary Clinton, the Democratic front-runner.
After formally entering the Republican presidential nomination race earlier in the day at his Trump Tower in Manhattan, the real estate mogul and host of NBC's "The Apprentice" flew aboard his private jet to Des Moines for a campaign rally in front of an enthusiastic crowd of more than 300.
Never shy about his wealth, Trump, 68, said he would be an independent voice because he doesn't need anyone's money. "I don’t need campaign contributions," he said. "I don't need money to fly in. I fly in very nicely."
"I don't think he would spend the dollars if it was just to promote himself," said Dennis Schultz, 71, a retired manager at Pioneer Hi-Bred in suburban Des Moines who leans Republican. "When he decides to do something, he does his research and does it well."
Cheryl TanCredi, 55, a community outreach director from Des Moines who considers herself an independent voter, said she plans to volunteer for Trump and campaign for him in Iowa.
"I've been undecided and looking for a good alternative because I'm not for Hillary," said TanCredi, wearing a red and white T-shirt Trump's campaign had given her on the way in. "I hope he's really running for president because we need someone who is straightforward--and he doesn't need the job for the money."
