Why is Iowa a swing state?

[Ban my account ffs!]

in all three cases... old white people.  The eastern part of the state is part of the Upper Midwest pocket that has been friendly to Democrats.  NW Illinois, SW Wisconsin, NE Iowa, and SE Minnesota are the areas in this region.

Here is a map from the 2012 prez election that outlines the region


The article that map is connected to can't find any particular reason that region votes Democratic since it's rural, agricultural, and overwhelmingly white.

This region does have a distinct identity centered on the upper Mississippi River.  It draws tourists from bigger midwestern cities that like to go "antiquing" or stay in bed and breakfasts.

Places like Galena, IL


Redwing, MN




It's a well educated, relatively prosperous area with great scenery and general homogeneity.  I think those things equal a political liberalism or, at least, open mindedness.