Cable news has begun its extensive coverage of the Republican Party of Iowa’s Ames Straw Poll, to be held at Iowa State University’s Hilton Coliseum Saturday, and not everything you see, read, or hear is true. Throughout the week, Iowa Independent staff will monitor Straw Poll coverage and post corrections to mainstream media claims here.
Tuesday, 8/7
12:30PM, MSNBC:
From outside seating area at the Drake Diner in Des Moines, MSNBC on-air reporter Don Teague mistakenly claims that only Republicans may participate in the Straw Poll. In truth, any adult with proof of Iowa residency (e.g., an Iowa driver license) may enter the Hilton Coliseum to vote.
On-screen graphic says “Voters purchase $35 ticket.” In truth, the large majority of voters at the Straw Poll will get a free ticket from the campaign that they are supporting.

