You know Hillary Clinton's speech made me think that caucuses are not all that great

[book_worm]

not to take anything away from Obama's victory, but when you think of it a lot of people can't take part. It takes place for a few hours at night (some are during the days I think). But people who work nights can't go. People in nursing homes can't participate. It may be difficult for handicapped or sick people to attend--people who are shut ins. You have to show up unlike in an election you can vote from (usually) 7am until 8 or 9 at night or by absentee ballot.

[msongs]

1. there ya go, raining on the coronation again... nt

[adadem]

2. Also people with small children

how many can afford a babysitter just to be able to "vote"

When you think about it it sounds very undemocratic as only the able and those who work days and those without little ones can go.

[pnwmom]

3. You're absolutely right. I live in a caucus state, and I hate it.

The whole thing is a circus, and a very undemocratic way to choose a nominee. The only difference between a caucus and the old "smoke-filled room" is that the rooms aren't smoky anymore.

I wish all states had primaries, but the elites who control the party would have to be forced to give up their power.

All that being said, I think Obama won despite, not because of, the Iowa caucus system. Congratulations to him for pulling so many people into the system.

[global1]

4. And Here I Thought That HRC Bought People Shovels In Case It Snowed.....

provided babysitters; drove people to the caucus - handicapped included.

This Iowa Caucus process has worked the same way for many election cycles. It is an American Institution. I bet it would have been ok with HRC if she won. Sounds to me like sour grapes. Boo Hoo.

[Captain Hilts]

5. BINGO - they're too 'self-selecting' and the logistics exclude a lot of demographics. nt

[hlthe2b]

6. I say, paint the names of candidates on colored squeakie balls....

and throw them into the ring of excited pups at doggie daycare.... The last ball to be chewed up, wins....:evilgrin:

Well, it would be about as democratic....:shrug:

[KT2000]

7. Caucuses are ridiculous

They do not represent a real tally of votes, they can be manipulated by the opposing parties and the timing is very selective. I wonder how night workers in Iowa would have voted.
The primary/caucus calendar gives huge weight to Iowa? Next up - New Hampshire.
I resent not having the opportunity to vote for the candidate of my choice.
This does not look like a democracy to me.