Why does Iowa get to choose our president?
Since 1972, the eventual nominee of each party has been among the top three finishers in Iowa. Sometimes, a good caucus showing can elevate a candidate from obscurity as it did with Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush or John Kerry. Often, it ends the campaigns of some candidates who finish lower than expected, because they find it difficult to raise the money needed to continue.
Critics say too much attention is paid to the results. They argue Iowa is not typical of all states. Supporters say no state is typical. Starting in a bigger state would mean only big-money candidates could compete. They say it's a legitimate test of how well candidates are doing with real people in the nation's heartland who have a chance to take their measure up close. Still, other states and the critics constantly try to change the process to end or minimize the Iowa results so someday they may not be as important.
Thoughts