2012 Hopefuls at the Iowa State Fair

The Iowa State Fair is going on right now in Des Moines, and it's drawn a few 2012 presidential hopefuls to the scene, hoping to do some retain politicking with those important caucus-goers. The Des Moines Register has set up a "soapbox" (not sure how literal that description is) for politicians to speak for up to 20 minutes on any topic of their choosing. Here's the Register's accounting of who will be there:

Some of the highlights include scheduled visits by Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine, as well as Republicans Newt Gingrich, former speaker of the U.S. House; Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty; and former U.S. Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania, all mentioned as possible presidential candidates.

Both parties on Wednesday released their lists of party notables who will appear at the fair. Others could be added.

A blogger at The Iowa Republican, meanwhile, says he wouldn't be surprised to see Mississippi Gov. Haley Barbour swing through.

Read the full fair preview story at the Des Mines Register.