Today, Cauci

In 1,781 precincts throughout the Hawkeye state today, Iowans will help choose the next president.

Anyone who will be 18 years old by November 4 can vote, all that’s required is that you register with the party of your choice at the cauci tonight.

Democrats call the meeting to order at 6:30 pm Central, and at 7 pm they form huddles of preference groups — including "uncommitted." (C’mon, people. Pick a team.)

To be considered "viable" in a precinct, a Democratic candidate needs to have the support of 15% or more of the caucus. There will likely be a "realignment" period after that initial divvying up — this is where voters’ second choices matter.

Each precinct has a pre-set number of delegates to allocate, based on voter turnout in that precinct in the previous two elections.

Based on the "viable" preference groups and a formula, Democrats in each precinct determine who will be allocated the pre-determined number of delegates.

For the Republicans, it’s a more direct caucus process. Take a vote, tally the votes, call it in to party headquarters. The party chair determines how many delegates the precinct gets based on the number of active voters from that precinct in the last election.

Tonight — dreams will be shattered, careers will be made. Some candidates will likely determine that despite millions raised and countless hours toiled, their ambition does not match the desire of voters.

For others — tonight will be one of the best nights of their lives.

Predictions, anyone?

– jpt