Christie Vilsack spoke of needed support in the battle to come with U.S. congressman Steve King for Iowa’s 4th Congressional District.

The 849 attendees, the largest attendance in Story County history, for the Democratic caucus at Ames High School listened intently as Vilsack began to focus on the differences between her and King, contrasting him as being more “national” and her as “local.”

“I think the contrast is going to be very clear,” Vilsack said. “I think of all of you and all of those in this district as my next door neighbors.”

Vilsack showed concern in taking on King, who has served five terms as a congressman for Iowa’s 5th District.  The 5th District has been eliminated, meaning that Vilsack and King are campaigning for what is now the 4th Congressional District, which contains 39 counties.

“I’m going to need an army of people,” Vilsack said, who suggested that all those present contact five friends and get them involved with the campaign. “No one will outwork me.”

Vilsack said she was impressed by the number of people who came out for the Democratic caucus for Story County.

“I think it’s great for the Democrats to see so many here … I’m hoping to gain a lot of volunteers,” she said.

The turnout was also a surprise to several caucus participants, who expected a low number of Democrats to show. 

“I didn’t think it would be too great,” said Nickie Williams, freshman from the University of Iowa who was home on break.  It was the first time Williams participated in the caucuses.