Palin to headline Republican Party’s biggest fundraiser in Iowa, 1st presidential caucus state

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Palin returns to Iowa for GOP’s biggest fundraiser

DES MOINES, Iowa — Potential 2012 presidential candidate Sarah Palin will headline the Iowa Republican Party’s biggest annual fundraiser, party officials announced Tuesday in the state that launches the presidential nominating process.

The Sept. 17 speech at the annual Reagan Dinner in Des Moines will be the first Iowa appearance by the former Alaska governor and 2008 vice presidential candidate since a brief book-signing stop last December.

“I know Iowa Republicans will be energized and motivated by Governor Palin to stand up and fight for these principles all the way to Election Day and beyond,” said Matt Strawn, chairman of the Iowa Republican Party.

Ed Failor Jr., head of Iowans for Tax Relief, said Palin was doing the task most important to the party: raising money. Tickets for the dinner cost $100 each.

Republican strategist Bob Haus said Palin’s visit also would energize Republican activists as the November election approaches. Republicans hope the election will enable them to retake the governorship, re-elect longtime U.S. Sen. Charles Grassley and take back control of the state House.

Palin is considered a Republican Party superstar, with members paying close attention to her endorsements and showing up in big numbers for appearances like at last weekend’s “Restoring Honor” rally in Washington, D.C. The rally was organized by conservative commentator Glenn Beck.

Palin’s Iowa visit will follow multiple appearances by others mentioned as potential 2012 presidential candidates.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, former Pennsylvania Sen. Rick Santorum and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich all have made repeated stops in the state. Gingrich aides announced Tuesday he will return to Iowa on Sept. 9.

Potential presidential candidates traditionally open their campaigns by helping local candidates, building ties that carry over to the presidential race.

“Governor Palin recognizes Iowa as an important state with a lot of important races up and down the ballot,” said Tim Albrecht, a spokesman for former Gov. Terry Branstad, who is trying to return to the office he held for 16 years. “I think she’s focused on this year. In terms of 2012, the exposure certainly won’t hurt.”