The Caucus

While I believe that my understanding of "how government works" is better than most, I didn't understand the caucus until this morning. In fact, I likened it much to the typical state primary system.

MSNBC provides a very good article on the caucus. You can find similar tutorials (some more in depth than others) at How Stuff Works, and Rock the Vote.

I will admit that I disagree with How Stuff Work's description of the caucus system as "convoluted", especially when considering the Democratic caucus. I think that it best defines civics in action. For those of you who don't know how it works,here's the basic shakedown: You meet with the other members of you party at your designated place - a local school, for example. You discuss the issues and hear about the candidates, and then you are asked to make your stand. You must, quite literally, choose a side and stay there. If you and the others who chose the same candidate make up at least 15% of the room, then you stay. If you don't, then you must choose another candidate. Once the groups represent at least 15% of the total, then further discussion and debate ensues. A final vote is cast for the candidate that the district selects.

Labor intensive? Absolutely - but why shouldn't it be? This isn't Sunday's dinner we are discussing - it's the President! How better to select the leader of your nation than to argue your views with your peers in a controlled, safe environment?

Too often we encounter individuals in this world who are indecisive and cannot support their own opinions and values. I would love to meet with and work with more folks who have valid opinions and ideas and aren't afraid to share them with others. Isn't that what research is, after all - communicating a thought or theory and supporting it with valid, authoritative research?

UPDATE: I've added links to Rock the Vote to both my Facebook and MySpace profiles. Visit today to register to vote in your state - and then spread the word!