Today we had multiple opportunities to meet with Iowans who have been involved in the caucus process in different capacities. First, we went to a law firm in downtown Des Moines and talked to Tom Henderson, former Democratic Chair for Polk County. Working in the largest county in Iowa, Tom had great insights to share about having such an important political job. Among other things, Tom shared with us the qualities he believed Iowa voters care the most about in terms of selecting a presidential candidate.
After our meeting with Tom, we drove up to Ames and returned to Iowa State University, where we had attended the Buttigieg event a few days prior. There, we had a discussion with Political Science professor Mack Shelley who answered our questions and gave us his take on the importance of the Iowa caucus process. We also had lunch in Ames at a popular spot among Iowa State students.
We returned to the hotel, and after a few minutes of downtime, we listened to Drake University Political Science professor Dennis Goldford break down the history of the Iowa caucuses and why he considers himself a “caucus skeptic.” It was really inspiring to witness his depth of knowledge about Iowa’s premiere position in the presidential primary election. We finished the night at Smokey Row Coffee, a cute and cozy restaurant that warmed us up from the cold!
Overall, it was a great day to apply what we had been learning all of last semester and learn even more from renowned experts in their fields!
Tomorrow: We join a session with Project VoteSmart and attend a campaign event for Senator Elizabeth Warren in Newton.
