President Trump has demanded an investigation into pollster Ann Selzer and the “now-discredited” Des Moines Register over what he called a “fake Iowa poll” that falsely suggested Kamala Harris was leading him.
The poll, conducted by Selzer & Co., claimed Harris was ahead of Trump in Iowa by 3 points, a result that clashed with the reality of Trump’s decisive 13-point victory in the state on Election Day.
“This is the same pollster who got confused over basic polling terminology, specifically the meanings of ‘R’ and ‘D’ in her cross tabs. Truly unbelievable,” Trump commented.
Amid backlash over the poll and a recent gaffe, Ann Selzer announced her retirement on Sunday, as previously reported by The Gateway Pundit.
In a column for the Des Moines Register, Selzer reflected on her career, defending her decades-long work in polling while acknowledging the controversy surrounding the Iowa poll. She described polling as the “science of estimation” and admitted that “science has a way of periodically humbling the scientist.”
Despite her defense, the column struck some as more of an excuse than accountability:
“Over a year ago I advised the Register I would not renew when my 2024 contract expired with the latest election poll as I transition to other ventures and opportunities…
Polling is a science of estimation, and science has a way of periodically humbling the scientist. So, I’m humbled, yet always willing to learn from unexpected findings…
My integrity means a lot to me. To those who have questioned it, there are likely no words to dissuade. For those who know me best, I appreciate the supportive notes and calls reminding me that what drew me to them as friends, colleagues, and clients was commitment to truth and accuracy — both in my professional and personal relationships.”
Trump, however, dismissed Selzer’s remarks, alleging misconduct. On Truth Social, he accused Selzer and the Des Moines Register of possible “election fraud” and called for an investigation:
“A totally Fake poll that caused great distrust and uncertainty at a very critical time. She knew exactly what she was doing.
Thank you to the GREAT PEOPLE OF IOWA for giving me such a record-breaking vote, despite possible ELECTION FRAUD by Ann Selzer and the now-discredited ‘newspaper’ for which she works. An investigation is fully called for!”
The incident adds to the ongoing debate over polling accuracy and its influence on public perception during elections.
