Iowa Pollster J. Ann Selzer Announces Retirement

J. Ann Selzer, a highly regarded pollster, has announced her departure from election polling after her last survey incorrectly predicted that Kamala Harris would lead Donald Trump in Iowa by three points. The poll, released just days before the election, significantly misrepresented the political landscape, as Trump ultimately won the state by over 13 points. Selzer acknowledged this as a 'big miss' and indicated that her polling may have inadvertently energized Republican voters. She clarified that her decision to step back was planned over a year ago, and it was not solely a reaction to the polling error. The situation has sparked discussions about the credibility of her polling methods and prompted investigations by the Des Moines Register's parent company, Gannett, into potential leaks regarding the poll's results. Despite the controversy, Selzer emphasized her long-standing commitment to integrity in polling and expressed a desire to transition to new ventures.