I hate the Iowa Caucus

[SharonClark]

11. You don't really get it

1. The Democrats who attend Democratic caucuses are diverse even if the state as a whole isn't.
2. Iowa allows candidates to hone their message and get their feet under them.
3. Iowans take this seriously, they meet candidates multiple times, often in small settings. Iowans have the opportunity to meet 3 - 4 candidates a week up front and personal.
4. Big primary states are all about fundraising and large media buys, Iowa is about talking with candidates about big and small issues.
5. Iowa Democratic Precinct Causues have been changed this year to allow remote call-in participation.
6. Precinct caucuses in Iowa aren't intended to replace the big state primaries that follow. Iowans know their spot in the process is to kick off the race, not to be the torch bearer at the end of the race.
7. The caucuses attract those who care the most about policy and candidates. It requires a couple of hours of time to discuss candidates and party platform in an often hectic but envigorating environment. It attracts the people who actually do the work on the street to elect Dems.
8. No one attends caucuses because they've been inundated by TV ads.

I love the caucuses because they are hands on and personal but I understand why many don't like them. The caucuses really do reflect the opinion of activists and not average voters. For Democrats and Iowa, that generally works out well.

That all said, it would be more fair if 'first in the nation' rotated among smaller states.