This story is free to read.

NJ Gov. Christie back again in Iowa; 2016 on mind?

FILE - This July 17, 2014, file photo shows New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie greeting Iowans after speaking at a fundraiser for Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad in Davenport, Iowa. Christie is headlining Branstad's birthday bash in Clive, Iowa, Saturday Oct. 25, 2014, one of the biggest events on the state's political calendar, cementing his status as Branstad's favored 2016 candidate and giving him his biggest platform yet to appeal to activists in the state. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File) FILE - This July 17, 2014, file photo shows New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie greeting Iowans after speaking at a fundraiser for Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad in Davenport, Iowa. Christie is headlining Branstad's birthday bash in Clive, Iowa, Saturday Oct. 25, 2014, one of the biggest events on the state's political calendar, cementing his status as Branstad's favored 2016 candidate and giving him his biggest platform yet to appeal to activists in the state. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall, File)

By Associated Press October 25, 2014 1 min read

AKRON, Iowa (AP) – New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie is back in Iowa spending time with political activists who could prove helpful if the Republican runs for president in 2016.

Christie is headlining Gov. Terry Branstad’s birthday bash Saturday night and attending Rep. Steve King’s annual pheasant hunt lunch.

It’s Christie’s third recent trip to the early-voting state. And it’s another chance to meet activists and fundraisers who could help him down the line.

Some political operatives in Iowa have made it clear that they’re eager to work for him.

But recent polls show that Christie would face an uphill climb if he were to make a play for Iowa.