SALIX, IOWA • Ron Desantis was making a four-stop blitz through Iowa during his first full day of presidential campaigning on Wednesday, aiming for a personal connection with voters while intensifying his criticism of former President Donald Trump.

The Florida governor’s first appearance was the floor of Port Neal Welding in Salix, a rural town near Sioux City, in the heart of the most Republican-heavy part of the state. Lining the highway outside the welding shop were metal structures including a towering Jesus, a version of the Statue of Liberty and the Minions.

Desantis talked up his efforts to push his state further to the right. But he often barreled through his 30-minute speech, leaving few pauses for applause from the audience of a bit more than 100 people, some wearing caps bearing seed company logos.

The governor is opening his campaign trailing Trump. He’s also for months been dogged by criticism that, while he’s comfortable on stage and in official settings, he can seem halting and awkward when interacting with regular voters.

Displaying a personal touch that resonates with voters is vital in states like Iowa.

He later sat with his wife, Casey, among hydraulic lifts and long welding tables arrayed with metal engine parts. The pair offered stories of their favorite drive-thru chicken restaurant and their kids.

“They just seem very down to earth,” said Bev Lessman, a retired teacher.