UWS Political Science Professor Talks Impact of Iowa Caucuses

Iowa Caucuses Produce Record Turnout

The Iowa Caucuses produced a record turnout Monday night and a few surprises. 

Dr. Alisa Von Hagel, Assistant Professor at UW-Superior, talked with FOX 21’s Natalie Froistad Tuesday morning about the results and the impact those votes have on campaigns. 

For those who may not know, a caucus is a meeting-type environment where folks have the chance to talk with each other before voting.

“There could be some persuasion, some trying to attract supporters, the undecided, so it’s much more dynamic, much more involved. It can take more time, but is really an incredible way for people to become engaged and to participate with their neighbors,” Dr. Von Hagel explained. 

Dr. Von Hagel also spoke about the surprises both parties experienced when the votes were counted. 

On the Republican side, Senator Ted Cruz came out on top for the Republicans, with Donald Trump in second and Senator Marco Rubio in a close third. 

Sen. Cruz spent a great deal of time in Iowa. “He had a very strong ground game. He spent a lot of time in Iowa and did what they call the ‘retail campaigning’ of going door-to-door, spending a tremendous amount of time in coffee shops, in diners and doing meet-and-greets,” said Dr. Von Hagel. 

Sen. Rubio was pleased with his outcome at the caucus. “He’s perhaps representing the more establishment of the Republican candidates, so there may be many in the Republican party giving a sigh of relief seeing he may be able to build on this momentum and continue as we move forward,” said Dr. Von Hagel. 

On the Democrat side, Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders were in a tight race, with Clinton taking the state in the end. 

“Sanders definitely was able to demonstrate that he’s able to turnout unlikely voters, those who have never been to caucuses before and that truly is quite a feat,” said Dr. Von Hagel.  

Following the caucuses, Dr. Von Hagel says what the caucuses allow for is more name recognition and possible campaign donations. 

The New Hampshire primaries take place in a week. 

Former Governors Martin O’Malley and Mike Huckabee ended their campaigns Monday night.