
10 American Presidents Podcast Ep8: What is a Caucus - Adam Vonnahme - download this version
Mar 17, 2016
Explore the intriguing world of caucuses, where political party members gather to make crucial decisions. Discover the origins of the caucus in colonial America, characterized by smoke-filled meetings. Learn the mechanics of caucus meetings, including discussions and straw polls. Adam reveals why caucuses are on the decline and how they differ from direct elections. Delve into the complexities of delegate selection and coalition building that shape the political landscape. This fascinating journey highlights the ongoing tug-of-war between democracy and party control.
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Caucus Is A Deliberative Meeting
- A caucus is a town-hall style meeting where supporters discuss candidates and issues together.
- It emphasizes deliberation in groups rather than secret-ballot direct voting.
Precinct Straw Polls And Group Debates
- Adam describes caucus participants breaking into precinct groups of 15–30 for straw polls and debate.
- He recounts hands-up counts and discussion before final delegate choices are made.
Straw Polls Are Informational Only
- Straw polls exist mainly to give media and party leaders an immediate sense of support.
- They are not the same as the formal delegate-selection that determines convention representation.
