Why do Iowans caucus?

In presidential years, the caucus’ most popular feature is the presidential preference poll. This is where hundreds of thousands of Iowans formally begin the presidential nominating process for both major national parties. 

Both parties also conduct important business on caucus night. The precinct caucus is the ultimate grassroots function of Iowa politics. It is where one can be elected to a leadership position in your county party, and it is also where changes to the party’s platform are introduced.


Who can participate?

To participate in an Iowa Republican or Democratic caucus, an individual must be a registered member of the party’s caucus that they are attending. Voters registered as “No Party” aren’t eligible. Participants must be 18 years old by Election Day (Nov. 5, 2024). Iowa law prohibits participating in more than one political party’s caucuses.


When and where is my caucus?

Each precinct in Iowa will hold a Republican and Democratic caucus on Jan. 15, 2024. At a time nearer to the caucuses, the Iowa Democratic Party (https://iowademocrats.org/caucus/) and Republican Party of...