Not all of the people at the Harkin Steak Fry were on stage with Senator Tom and Ruth Harkin.  There were about 12,000 others wandering around eating steak (or chicken), waving signs, lots of waving signs, and cheering for candidates.

In these videos you’ll witness the sign wars, meet the people who drove across the state to be in Indianola, and get a little closer to the candidates. 

Also keep a watch for Iowa Independent’s John Deeth (curiously sans his trademark beret) collecting his press badge near the front gate.  He rushes off to witness the Obama pre-rally before the main event.

More videos available below the fold.In this video, you’ll hear what people are saying about Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama.

Below is a condensed version of the presidential candidates’ speeches at the 30th Annual Steak Fry.


Just for fun, I put this together using small parts of the speeches.  Officially the candidates were given 15 minutes to make a case for themselves.  Here I gave them a just few seconds to have their say.  Enjoy!