Mitt Romney celebrates the narrowest of victories.
Final results from the Republican Party's first nominating contest in Iowa saw Romney finish first by just eight votes.
The result solidifies his position as the frontrunner to challenge President Barack Obama in November's elections.
Senator Rick Santorum came in second.
(SOUNDBITE) (English) IOWA GOP CHAIRMAN MATT STRAWN:
"I can report with 1777 precincts reporting, Governor Mitt Romney 30,015 received votes, Senator Rick Santorum with 30,007 votes. Congratulations to Governor Mitt Romney, winner of the 2012 Iowa Caucusus. Congratulations to Senator Santorum for a very close second place finish and an excellent race here."
Until recently Santorum had not been considered among the leaders in the race.
But his strong showing in Iowa makes him the latest candidate to gain on Romney.
Texas congressman Ron Paul came in third place, four percent behind the leading pair.
Simon Hanna, Reuters.
