We Go First: A Night at the Caucus
February 4, 2020
On Monday, February 2nd, a statewide political event happened: the Iowa Caucus. ADM’s Middle and High School buildings had three caucuses behind their doors: Democratic Adel 1, Adel 2 and Colfax, and the Republican Adel 1 and 2.
What is the caucus and why does Iowa caucus first?
The caucus is biennial, and it is an electoral event for members of the Democratic and Republican parties. Members of a precinct go to have political conversations with their neighbors and select delegates for the areas. Iowa goes first because it has a complex system of precinct caucuses, county conventions, district conventions, and state convention. Iowa went first for Democratic Caucuses in 1972, and Iowa has gone first ever since.
“Who are you caucusing for and why?”
Kadyn Dimler, D
Kadyn Dimler shows her Pete Buttigeg pride at the Adel 1 Caucus.
“I’m caucusing for Pete Buttigieg. I think he is very moderate and can appeal to both sides nicely, and I agree with most of his ideas.”
Jo Kimber, D
Jo gets her Buttigieg information for the caucus.
“I’m caucusing for Pete Buttigieg. I like his message and I think that he can win.”
Vicki Martin, D
Vicki Martin presents her Joe Biden pamphlet.
“I’m caucusing for Joe Biden. He is the most qualified to endure what’s going on in the world and on the stage. He can restore dignity and knows how to do it. Most of these candidates are looking at the world through rose-tinted lenses. Joe has clear lenses, and he’s looking through them. He has the concrete experience and he is going to save the country with this chance. We don’t have many chances left to give. Joe is quiet and sure.”
Ashley Aldrich, D
Ashley and Neil Aldrich at the Tom Steyer table.
“I’m caucusing for Tom Steyer. He has a clear focus on climate change and is economically centered. I like what he has to say and how he presents ideas.”
“Do you have any advice for younger people?”
Jon and Sharyl Engelhardt, D
“You should caucus, participate in politics, and vote. It’s your right to do so, and it’s the right thing to do.”
Neil Aldrich, D
“Listen to who they [the politicians] are and what they stand for, go and vote, get politically involved, but do your research and get the correct information to make your opinion.”
Rob Christensen • Feb 4, 2020 at 10:21 pm
The Republican caucus in Adel 2 had 46 attendees and Adel 1 had approximately 30. Unfortunately I believe you stopped by too early and possibly too late as we wrapped up by 7:35. Both Adel 1 & 2 voted 100% for President Trump and elected delegates to the county convention.