On February 5, 2008, the citizens of Bannock County will have the opportunity to attend the Democratic Caucus and declare their choice for a Democratic Presidential Candidate. Participating in this unique process is especially exciting this competitive presidential year, and we expect an historic turnout in Bannock County for this American political tradition.
Those participating in the caucus for the first time should be aware of the basic process: any citizen who will be a registered voter by November 4, 2008 may participate. The voter should arrive at the Idaho State University Student Union Ballroom between 5 PM and 7 PM to sign a pledge form. When the doors close at 7 PM, the caucus is declared officially open, and a roll call is taken.
The voter joins with other voters who have pledged support for the same candidate to form a “presidential candidate sub-caucus.” If the sub-caucus does not achieve at least 15% of the total number of registered attendees, a re-caucusing occurs—and the fun begins. Members of one sub-caucus can either recruit other voters—in hopes of achieving the required fifteen percent—or join other sub-caucuses. You can expect some compelling, energetic lobbying and campaigning during this time.
Next, a final vote of each sub-caucus is taken. Sub-caucuses that achieve the required percentage are eligible to elect delegates to the state convention, held this year in Boise, June 12 -15. Twenty-six delegates are divided proportionally among the eligible sub-caucuses, based on the number of voters in their group. If a sub-caucus doesn’t achieve the required fifteen percent, it’s not eligible to elect any delegates.
Finally, the voting is verified, and the caucus is declared concluded.
Currently, the caucus is open to anyone wishing to participate in this distinct political process, making it a dynamic and lively event. Opinions are expressed, conclusions are made, and support is openly pledged. Unfortunately, a bill currently being proposed in the Idaho State Legislature (Senate Bill 1258) may radically change this historic event.
If passed, the bill would require voters to declare their political party, Democrat or Republican. Only declared party members would be allowed to participate in their party’s primary election, effectively disenfranchising independent voters from primary elections. By attempting to lock down primary elections, the bill’s sponsors are stifling debate and discouraging thoughtful consideration of all candidates by all Idaho voters.
We extend an invitation to anyone who wishes to participate in the Democratic Caucus to join us on January 26 at the Booth Barn for chili and an opportunity to hear from Democratic presidential candidate representatives. This will be a great opportunity to get to know each candidate a bit better and join in the debate about who should be Idaho’s Democratic nominee.
For more information, please contact Allen Andersen, Chairman of the Bannock County Democratic Party, at 233-5438 or ab@andersen.myrf.net.
