DES MOINES, Iowa — Herman Cain has never held public office, but Iowa Republicans are expressing strong interest in the Georgia businessman who is edging toward a run for the White House.
Cain, a former co-owner of the Godfather's Pizza chain, will join other potential Republican presidential candidates Monday at a forum in Des Moines.
Former Iowa Republican Party Chairman Richard Schwarm says Cain is creating a buzz among activists who vote in the state's caucuses, which lead off the presidential nominating process.
Schwarm says Cain is a longshot to win, but notes that there isn't a clear favorite less than a year out from the caucuses.
Cain gets his strongest support from people in the tea party movement.
Cain says Americans appreciate his views on limited government and want a strong leader.