Bachmann wins Iowa Straw Poll, Paul close second

Minnesota Congresswoman Michele Bachmann came in first place at the Ames, Iowa Straw Poll today. Of course, the results are non-binding and come without participation in the event by Mitt Romney and Rick Perry yet Bachmann’s first place finish will certainly boost her campaign.

Here are the full results of the straw poll and as you can see, Ron Paul nearly beat out Bachmann for the first place title.

Source: Washington Examiner

Report from Fox News:

Rep. Michele Bachmann won the Iowa Straw Poll Saturday,  affirming her status as a top-tier candidate in the Republican race to challenge President Obama in 2012.

Texas Rep. Ron Paul came in second, followed by former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty in third.

The political festival is the first indication of how these Republicans are faring with the GOP base. Nine candidates were on the ballot, and voting ran six hours for the day on the campus of Iowa State University.

The most buzz revolved around Bachmann, whose supporters were a huge presence at the outdoor circus before the votes were cast. 

But Pawlenty arguably had the most on the line as his aides have said that if he didn’t finish at least second or third, they would have to evaluate whether he can move forward.

Paul has had the most devout and loyal following at the event this year. He got the surprise showing he was looking for in hopes that it would convince Republicans that he was more mainstream than not in his second shot at the GOP nomination. He referenced his fellow Texan’s entrance in the race and said he didn’t anticipate many of his supporters jumping ship for what he called a “super-establishment candidate.”

This will boost Bachmann and Paul while probably helping to keep Pawlenty in the race.