A breakdown of the Iowa Caucuses reveals that allegiance to ethanol - once required for political success in rural states - has faded in importance as some candidates skeptical about biofuel subsidies fared better than supporters. Becky Beach - a Republican operative in Iowa says ethanol’s strength allows voters tied to the farm economy to worry less about biofuels and look more at other issues.

Staunch ethanol opponent Ron Paul took second in rural counties. Rick Santorum - who won the vote in farm country - relied on support from religious conservatives - although support for biofuels helped. Mitt Romney - who has criticized long-term government subsidies for the fuel - carried the entire state. Newt Gingrich - who took fourth - consulted for an industry group and had the highest rating on farm policy from the Iowa Corn Growers Association.

Chuck Hassebrook - Executive Director of the Center for Rural Affairs - says ethanol’s growth - and rising acceptance that it no longer needs tax credits and trade protection - reduces the political importance of a fuel that once stood as a litmus test for candidates - a lesson that may reverberate in other states.