The NPR Politics Podcast How The Iowa Caucus Works
Jan 12, 2024
The Iowa caucus is just around the corner, facing challenges from severe winter weather. Participants will experience a unique voting process that differs from traditional methods, impacting turnout. The podcast discusses how extreme cold can deter voters and the significance of first-time voters for candidates like Trump. There's also a dive into the high stakes of campaign ad spending, particularly between Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis, while super PACs play a crucial role in shaping the political landscape.
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Iowa's Frigid Caucus Day
- Don Gonyea described the harsh Iowa weather conditions, including near-zero visibility and single-digit temperatures.
- He noted that on caucus day, the high is expected to be -2 degrees Fahrenheit, with wind chills potentially reaching -50 degrees.
Weather's Impact on Turnout
- The severe weather is expected to impact voter turnout for the Iowa caucuses.
- While record turnout occurred in 2016, projections for this year are significantly lower, potentially around 150,000 or less.
Low Turnout and Uncertainty
- Iowa caucuses historically have low participation rates, with only about 1/4 or 1/5 of registered Republicans typically participating.
- The weather and reliance on first-time caucus-goers, particularly by the Trump campaign, introduce uncertainty to the outcome.