Iowa caucuses: AP calls Iowa for Trump as DeSantis places 2nd

Posted January 15, 2024 at 3:47 PM EST

Iowa has gone first in the presidential primary season for a long time — over half a century. But despite the caucuses being a longstanding tradition in American presidential politics, some political figures have also advocated to scrap the process.

The Democrats abandoned the Iowa Caucuses this year following technical issues in 2020 that caused delays in tabulating results.

As Republicans get ready to caucus, some think this year could be the finale.

“It's likely the last Iowa caucus, as we have come to know and some have come to love,” said Democratic strategist and data analyst Tom Bonier.

“I, for one, won't miss it,” he laughed. “In this country, we need to be doing everything we can to make it easier for people to vote. And we need to be bringing more diverse voices in… I think it's probably for the best that they move on.”

To Bonier, the lack of flexibility in caucuses limits who can participate.

It’s an unconventional system to get behind: There’s no early or mail voting, and all caucusgoers must show up in person at 7 p.m. CT. And this year, that also means braving the freezing weather.

But for Republicans, they’re pushing on with business as usual. And despite voiced criticism over caucus restrictions, compared to primaries, some Republicans still think the system works.

“I wouldn't say the caucuses are outdated,” said former Iowa state Rep. Joe Mitchell. “I actually think they're the best way to do elections specifically for the top person that's going to be the nominee of your party for a presidential election.”

Mitchell leads the organization Run GenZ, which supports young Republicans vying for local and state office. He plans to caucus for former President Donald Trump.

“Being able to have some discourse and some true organic, grassroots people that are speaking on your behalf, I think, is a good thing,” he added.

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