All eyes in the American political world will be on Iowa tonight as the 2020 Iowa Caucuses take place throughout the Hawkeye State.
Despite some opposition, Iowa remains First-in-the-Nation when it comes to selecting the Democrat nominee for President.
As it should.
While there have been complaints that Iowa isn’t “diverse” enough to be First-in-the-Nation, we’ve already debunked that diversity myth. Not that Iowa isn’t diverse, you can’t argue with facts.
But you also can’t argue with the fact that President Barack Obama did not perform well in the most diverse states against Hillary Clinton in 2008. He did, however, fare far better in the least diverse states against Clinton.
So, if diversity were a real issue, why did Obama perform much better in states where there wasn’t as much diversity? And why did he not perform near as well in states with more diversity?
Iowa is unique. Iowans take great pride in its role as the launching point for Presidential hopefuls. Candidates can successfully campaign in our state on a shoestring budget. And, while there is a so-called “lack of diversity” among Iowans, there is great diversity among priorities and voters.
Western Iowa is almost a completely different state from Eastern Iowa. There are pockets of deeply conservative voters throughout the state, along with larger cities that tend to be deep blue — Des Moines, Iowa City, Ames, Cedar Rapids.
While agriculture is pretty well a statewide priority, voters in the state vary greatly when it comes to individual issues.
Iowans are well-versed in pressing Presidential hopefuls. They ask thoughtful questions, they take time out of their day to attend rallies and they genuinely listen to any candidate willing to stop and visit.
Iowa serves its purpose well. And, in return, it serves the political process well.
It would be a shame if Iowa were to lose its First-in-the-Nation status.
Regardless, it’s important voters take part in today’s caucus. You never know how much longer Iowa will kick things off. We need to enjoy it while it lasts.
