Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama Lead Democrats at Iowa Caucus

The Iowa Caucus will be the first caucus on Election Year 2008, when it occurs on January 3, 2008. "The modern definition describes caucuses as a process of political party members gathering to make policy decisions and to select candidates." The Iowa Caucuses occur every two years. "The caucuses that coincide with presidential elections are better attended and receive more media attention." The Iowa Caucus becomes more important because it starts early in the election year and all eyes will be on the state. The Caucus could turn a favorite candidate into a dark horse candidate. It could also propel a lesser known candidate into being a leading candidate.

Several polls have been used in Iowa to get a sense of how Iowans will vote in the Democratic Caucus. According to a University of Iowa poll, between October 17 and October 24, Hillary Clinton leads the other candidates with 29% of the pollsters, Barack Obama is in second place with 23.3%, and John Edwards is a close third with 21.3%. Bill Richardson and Joe Biden are way behind with 7.8% and 5% respectfully. Strategic Vision Poll of October 12 through October 14 had similar results. Hillary Clinton had 29%, Barack Obama was closer with 27%, and John Edwards was third with 20%. Bill Richardson and Joe Biden were off the pace with 9% and 6% respectfully. A Rasmussen poll October 10th through 14th had Hillary Clinton with a larger lead with 33%, John Edwards was edging Barack Obama for second 22% to 21%. Bill Richardson had 7% and Joe Biden had 4%. A Des Moines Register Poll conducted October 1st through 3rd had Hillary Clinton in the lead with 29%, followed again by John Edwards with 23%, and Barack Obama in third with 22%. Bill Richardson with 8% and Joe Biden with 5% were both back from the pack. (Source Data used from RealClear Politics.com)