Donald Trump confirmed his predictions and his dominance in the first intra-party vote of the Republicans, in the state of Iowa, for the nomination of the party’s candidate in the November presidential election with the former president’s victory.

The tycoon confirmed the status of the undisputed favorite of the American faction of the right, according to estimates by CNN and CBS.

In a statement after his first victory, Trump called on Americans to “unite.”

“I think now is the time for all of us, our country to unite (…). Whether it’s Republicans, Democrats, liberals, or conservatives,” the former president, who is known for his typically aggressive rhetoric, told supporters in the Midwestern city of Des Moines.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSandis finished far behind in second place, according to Edison Research, ahead of former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley.

With nearly 90 percent of the vote counted, Trump had 50.9 percent, while De Sandys was at 21.4 percent and Haley at 19.0 percent, according to Edison Research.

Both De Sandys and Haley were aiming for a strong second-place finish to convince sponsors and supporters.

Third-party candidate Vivek Ramaswamy announced Monday night that he is dropping out of the race for the Republican presidential nomination in November, siding with Donald Trump.

“We will suspend our campaign for the presidency,” Mr Ramaswamy clarified, as the businessman received only about 7% of the vote, according to the results so far.

“There is no possible path to becoming the next president (…). I called Donald Trump to tell him that I congratulate him on his victory and that from now on, I offer him my full support,” added the Indian-origin Republican. , founder of an American biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry conglomerate.

Trump’s victory was also recognized by the American president, Joe Biden, stating that he is “clearly ahead” in the race, that he is the favorite.

“He’s the clear favorite of the other side at this point,” Mr. Biden found via X (formerly Twitter), calling on Americans who support him to contribute money.