Thousands of Republicans flocked to Iowa Saturday as the Ames Straw Poll kicked off. Iowans will cast their vote for their top presidential contender as candidates try to win the first big test of the primary season. Past straw polls suggest it's not a strong predictor of the Iowa caucuses (Mitt Romney won the straw poll last time round in 2007, but lost the caucuses to Mike Huckabee), but many candidates are still pouring resources into it. Texas Governor Rick Perry announces his candidacy on the same day and "unaffiliated group" Americans for Rick Perry has organized an extensive write-in campaign.