Rough reception as Ryan precedes president to Iowa State Fair

Republican Paul Ryan got his first taste of the rough side of a presidential campaign on Monday when protesters heckled him and president Barack Obama accused him of blocking emergency aid to drought-hit farmers.

The new vice-presidential hopeful from Wisconsin mingled with locals at the Iowa State Fair, a popular spot for politicians keen to show their common touch. Dressed in hecked shirt, Mr Ryan spoke to fairgoers but his first solo campaign speech was interrupted. Hecklers standing at the front of a large pro-Ryan crowd shouted “Stop the war against the common good,” prompting Republicans to shout and swear at them.

One of the protesters rushed the small stage where Mr Ryan was speaking. She was grabbed by state troopers. Police said one of the protesters punched a volunteer fair worker.

“It’s funny because Iowans and Wisconsinites, we like to be respectful of one another, and listen to one another,” Mr Ryan said. “These ladies must not be from Iowa or Wisconsin.”

Also in Iowa, Mr Obama said Mr Ryan was “one of the leaders of Congress standing in the way” of a farm bill that includes aid to farmers hit by drought. So if you happen to see Congressman Ryan, tell him how important this farm bill is to Iowa and our rural communities,” he said.

Sam Youngman