Chuck Grassley, the most influential Republican in Iowa, likes
Huckabee. From the Washington Post: "Yesterday, Sen.
Charles E. Grassley, Iowa's leading Republican, said in an
interview that he thinks Huckabee is 'the guy who could surprise
everybody' in January. 'It's demeanor, background, personal
beliefs, friendliness, stuff like that,' Grassley said. 'How he
conducts himself, things of that nature. I'm talking about who fits
in with the average Iowan, who are they going to feel comfortable
with.' " There is not yet any formal endorsement since Grassley
thinks Huckabee lacks the money to compete. However, when you talk
to GOP party folks and activists in Iowa -- those not on Huckabee's
team --- you hear similar comments about Huckabee's demeanor and
ability to relate to caucus goers.