Why Iowans Go First In The Race For The Presidency

Published February 1, 2016 at 1:52 PM EST

Supporters listen to Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) during a campaign event at Grand View University January 31, 2016 in Des Moines, Iowa. Sanders hosted his last public campaign event for the Democratic nomination prior to the Iowa caucus on February 1. (Alex Wong/Getty Images)

The folks in the Hawkeye State get first say in the presidential race. Caucus history dates back to the 1968 convention and the anti-war violence in the streets of Chicago. People were fed up with the top-down system for picking presidential nominees. Reforms were passed and Iowa jumped to take advantage, scheduling its caucus first in 1972. Here & Now’s Alex Ashlock looks at the history of Iowa caucuses.

Reporter

Alex Ashlock, producer and reporter for Here & Now, currently on the road in Iowa. He tweets @aashlock.

Stand up for civility

This news story is funded in large part by Connecticut Public’s Members — listeners, viewers, and readers like you who value fact-based journalism and trustworthy information.

We hope their support inspires you to donate so that we can continue telling stories that inform, educate, and inspire you and your neighbors. As a community-supported public media service, Connecticut Public has relied on donor support for more than 50 years.

Your donation today will allow us to continue this work on your behalf. Give today at any amount and join the 50,000 members who are building a better—and more civil—Connecticut to live, work, and play.

Donate