NEWS

Student Political Forces Move On To Iowa

Reporting and Videography By: Kelly Schlicht

The road to the White House may begin with road trips to Iowa for the three major democratic candidates and their student campaign forces.

UW Students for Hillary, Edwards and Obama have been focusing their efforts on the Hawkeye state for the past several months. The next caravans leave this Friday for their final trip to Iowa before winter break.

But what makes Iowa so special? Why not campaign heavily in the Badger state?

Student organizers say Iowa is so important because the Iowa caucus falls on January 3, kicking off the primary season. The momentum created in Iowa could propel candidates towards nominations.

Additionally, students say political activists in Iowa who participate in the caucus generally know more about the candidates than the average American.

UW Political Science Professor Dennis Dresang says the Iowa caucus has more distinct differences than students recognize.

““The real key issue is who is your second choice, because when we vote again, when your candidate is no longer in the picture, who are you going to vote for,” Dresang says. “And that’s where in a sense the polling gets a little peculiar because it doesn’t take into account people’s second and third choice.”

However, students say their trips have benefits to others besides the politicians.

“I get the experience of getting my foot in the door on campaigns, and also making a difference,” says Stephanie Biese of the Students for Hillary campaign.

And while these students have done so much for candidates, the question remains what candidates can do for students.