Introduction to Caucuses
Unlike primary elections, caucuses are direct, participatory meetings of party members in a community. Iowa's caucus, the first in the cycle, sets the tone for the presidential nomination process.
Iowa's First-in-Nation Status
Iowa has maintained its first-in-the-nation caucus status since 1972, giving it significant influence in the nomination process by providing early momentum to candidates.
Caucus Night Process
During the caucus, Iowa Democrats gather to discuss candidates, then physically group by preference. Republicans cast a secret ballot. Both parties require a viability threshold to earn delegates.
Realignment and Viability
If a Democratic candidate's group doesn't meet the viability threshold (usually 15%), participants can realign to different candidates, join uncommitted groups, or form new alliances.
Delegate Apportionment
Delegates are awarded proportionally, based on caucus results. Sub-caucuses may form around specific issues or candidates to influence delegate selection.
Criticisms and Defense
Critics argue the Iowa caucus isn't demographically representative of the nation. Defenders say it tests candidates' grassroots organizational strength and personal appeal.
2020 Rule Changes
After 2016, the DNC mandated more transparency. Iowa introduced 'satellite caucuses' for greater accessibility and a paper trail for added verification in the 2020 cycle.Caucus Coin Toss
In a tie, some Iowa caucus results are decided by a coin toss, introducing an element of chance into democracy.
What is a caucus?
A state's primary election
A participatory party member meeting
A national party convention
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