Story highlights Obama is returned to the site of the first-in-the-nation caucus to promote his higher education agenda

He's eager to remain relevant in the current political conversation

Des Moines, Iowa (CNN) These days, most politicians heading to Iowa are trying to become president. On Monday the big-wig who landed in the state already occupies the Oval Office.

President Barack Obama was ostensibly returning to the site of the first-in-the-nation caucuses to promote his higher education agenda. But during his short stop here, the undercurrent of the state's full-swing campaign season was unavoidable -- even as Obama himself said he couldn't keep track of all the candidates.

Asked during a town hall which presidential candidate was selling the best plan for making college more affordable, Obama demurred, claiming he wasn't yet ready to wade into sticky presidential politics. But he said he wouldn't say silent on the race forever.

"I can't tell you who to vote for, at least just not right now," he said. "Later I will."

Without naming any of the Republicans vying for the GOP nomination, Obama made clear he disagreed with many of their plans to fund higher education, saying the resources behind their proposals weren't sufficient.

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