How accurate is Iowa caucus with GOP presidential nominees? Not very

By Lynn R. Mitchell

It’s a question I’ve asked for years: Why does Iowa play such an important role in the presidential process?

As a Virginia resident, I’m jealous. What do we have to do to have presidential candidates frequent our BBQ joints and ice cream parlors? To show up at local events and livestock sales, and talk with residents and community leaders while chowing down on flapjacks and hamburgers?

I want some of that attention. And how did the Iowa caucuses get that kind of attention?

I realize they are the first when presidential primaries begin. But do they really carry that much weight?