I'm just back from Iowa and the caucuses. I'd say ask me anything,

[Critters2]

but I'm completely exhausted and going to bed soon. So, ask me anything, and I'll prob'ly get back to you tomorrow. I will say, though, that I had a great time!


Edited because of that stupid rule that says a sentence starts with a capital letter.

[tigereye]

1. hmm, where did all those Obama voters come from?

and: was there cake and cookies?

Did you get to see a real caucus?

[Critters2]

2. Obama had cookies and bottled water, and a corner with

coloring books, toys and babysitters for kids. Hillary had sandwiches, water and pop.

Yeah, went to a real caucus. In my old precinct. Couldn't vote, of course. I stood in the back with some other out-of-staters, a friend who hasn't completed his citizenship process yet, and campaign workers.

As to the Obama voters, I knew LOTS of them--many who hadn't caucused before, at least not the last two times. The same people who were Kerry supporters last time were with Clinton this time, and just as smug. Those who were Deaniacs last time were for Edwards this time. But we knew within minutes of walking in the room that Obama was going to do very well.

[tigereye]

3. it's great that so many folks turned out, many more than usual, right?

I really thought Edwards was going to carry the day - the Obama people really turned on the heat!


I wish we had a nice neighborhood/discussion process like that - I think it's really cool.


Glad you had a good time.

[Critters2]

5. Probably twice as many as last time. It was a little chaotic,

because there were so many people. It was clear that Obama had a great organization with lots of grassroots workers. Where I was, Edwards' organization didn't seem so strong. More paid workers than local volunteers, but I have no idea if that was true all over the state. I heard Edwards speak earlier in the week, and was really impressed. I liked his "taking on the corporations" stuff, and thought he might do better than he did.

It is a great process. I wish we did it here.

[Robeson]

4. Very interesting insight....

...thanks for the info, mycritters2. From your description, sounds like Obama is a wild card many weren't prepared for.

[Critters2]

6. You're welcome.

And yes, the Clinton supporters were especially taken by surprise--but everyone was to some degree. An interesting night.

[no name no slogan]

7. Now THAT'S what I like to hear

A little surprise in this process is SORELY needed. The primaries seem so scripted and pre-determined these days, it's good to see things shaken up a bit.

[UTUSN]

8. Ah, so CLINTON-KERRY peeps were "smug". So, were all the outsiders

(Rethugs and "Independents") really there from conviction for the candidate?!1 AND will they vote for the Dem nominee in the General?!1