O'Malley setting the ground work in Iowa

[FSogol]

From an article entitled: Iowa Pole Position: How Democrats Set Up Caucus Runs with 2014 Visits

The midterms before the Iowa Caucus provide an excellent opportunity for potential presidential candidates to visit the First in the Nation state. Early trips to Iowa can connect candidates with grass-top activists, pique interest in local and national media, and build up political favors that can be cashed in on later. 2014 was no different. Republican hopefuls came en masse, while a smaller contingent of Democrats dipped their toes in the early speculation water. Hillary’s shadow looms large here, even in a state known for upending front-runners (including her). What did each Democrat gain with their visits?

Martin O’Malley

Days in Iowa: 7

One of the most active of the early presidential contenders, Governor O’Malley spent considerable time and resources to curry favor with Iowa political insiders. Just like Evan Bayh did in 2006, O’Malley sent several of his political aides to serve as campaign staff to Iowa candidates in important races. He also crisscrossed the state, headlining nearly 20 events, many of which were for targeted down-ballot candidates. This strategy will serve O’Malley well when/if he returns as an official candidate, with a pocket full of favors and a rolodex stocked with Democratic influencers.

On edit: I should add that the 7 days was in 2014 before the midterms.