Despite Losing Staff, Bachmann Campaigns Hard In Iowa
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Despite reports some top aides have left her campaign, Rep. Michele Bachmann hit Iowa hard Saturday, hosting a town hall meeting and taking part in a candidate forum.
Bachmann campaigned in her home state of Iowa hoping to shore up voters for the nation's first caucus, which will be held in less than 10 weeks.
Political analyst Larry Jacobs said that obstacles are stacking up against the Minnesota Republican.
"Her campaign is imploding," Jacobs said.
Since winning the Iowa Straw Poll in August, Bachmann has had a hard time on the campaign trail.
"She had some bad moments in the debates; she said some things that were wrong and they came back against her," Jacobs said. He also said that her fundraising has "tanked."
Reports that Bachmann's five full time staff members in New Hampshire have quit also has the congresswoman on the defensive.
For now, Bachmann's campaign is focused on Iowa and South Caroline -- two states where her social conservative message is appealing.
"Question is: Can congresswoman Bachmann put up under this incredible pressure," Jacobs said. "Will she be able to fundraise anymore? Will she be able to keep her staff even in Iowa, which looks to be her last stance?"
Bachmann is very important for how the Republican field plays out. If her support continues to erode, it's either going to Herman Cain or Rick Perry, which will hurt Mitt Romney, Jacobs said.
