Iowa Caucus History
Every four years since 1972, Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucuses have helped “hire” the president of the United States. In fact, every U.S. president since Jimmy Carter has finished among the top three in the Iowa caucuses – except when Iowa’s own Tom Harkin ran in 1992.
Iowans take this responsibility and privilege seriously. They are engaged and informed. They ask tough questions that force candidates to address a spectrum of issues. Activists in Iowa often raise topics and policy positions that also are important to activists in the national party.
This responsibility and privilege comes again on Feb. 3, 2020, when Iowans will gather in auditoriums, gymnasiums and other places across the state to shape the future of the United States and the world.
Learn more about how the Iowa Caucuses started -- and how they've evolved -- at an exhibit on display September 2019 through February 2020 at the State Historical Museum of Iowa, a block west of the State Capitol.
