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.