The Iowa caucus, which takes place every four years as the first step in the presidential nominating process, has a unique and significant role in American politics. While the outcome of the caucus does not necessarily determine the eventual nominee or president, it does have a disproportionate impact on the trajectory of the campaign. The history of Iowa's role in presidential politics dates back to 1972, when the state's Democratic Party decided to hold a caucus instead of a primary election. The caucus system, which involves precinct-level meetings to select delegates, was seen as a way to engage grassroots activists and give smaller, less populous states a voice in the process. Since then, Iowa has become a must-win state for both major parties, with candidates devoting significant resources and attention to the state in the lead-up to the caucus. The significance of Iowa's caucus lies in its status as the first major test of a candidate's viability. With no polling...