Chris Christie is returning to Iowa for the first time since he declared he was running for president.

Campaign spokeswoman Samantha Smith said Wednesday the Republican New Jersey governor planned to make two trips to the kickoff caucus state. He'll be in Iowa on July 24 and 25 and again on July 31 and Aug. 1.

Smith said Christie will headline a fundraiser for Sen. Chuck Grassley in the Fort Dodge area and attend a summer party hosted by prominent Iowa businessman Bruce Rastetter. He'll also hold town hall meetings and other events to meet with Republicans.

Christie has made five trips to Iowa this year, but in recent months he has spent more time in New Hampshire. He announced his presidential bid on June 30.