The start of 2024 will ignite the intense political race for the Republican nominee in the presidential election. 2024 will mark the first year that many PV seniors will be able to participate in the election, starting with the Iowa caucus.
To receive the nomination for the frontrunning member of a political party, candidates must advertise their way to the top of their party to become the main opponent of President Joe Biden in the 2024 election. This race for the presidency starts in Iowa.
Each individual state holds either a primary or a caucus to decide who they want to be the presidential nominee for their party. Primaries are more common in the country, but four states – North Dakota, Nevada, Wyoming and Iowa – hold a caucus instead.
Senior Owen Stoltz shared why he thinks the Iowa caucus is important for the presidential race. “I am a big believer in getting involved in the political process as soon as possible,” voiced Stoltz. “A lot of people are passionate about issues and one way they can make change is by voting.”
In a primary, all individuals within the state are able to place a vote via secret ballot for who they want to be the party nominee. Caucuses, on the other hand, are held in groups, where people are able to debate who receives their state’s vote.
The Iowa caucus takes place before all other primaries and caucuses, making it one of the key indicators as to how a candidate will perform throughout the rest of their race for the nomination. Participation in the Iowa caucus is limited only to those who will be 18 years of age on election day.
Many seniors at PV will be able to vote in the upcoming election. “This is my first year being able to vote,” said PV senior Camrin Rondeau. “Being able to participate in the election is pretty important and it would be cool to be a part of the Iowa Caucus.”
These rules prevent the majority of high school students from attending the caucus, but many juniors and seniors will be the required 18 years of age by the time of the election, giving them the ability to participate in the highly anticipated Iowa caucus.
Voting comes with responsibilities on top of the legal requirements. Being informed of current political issues and candidates is very important to properly decide how to vote. Practicing proper voting habits is important for new voters in the US in order to withhold the integrity of the elections.
“It’s important for students to be informed about their elected leaders,” continued Stoltz. “They should have the ability to choose people who they believe will best represent their interests.”
Election years are always very intense, with opposing political parties fighting at every turn. PV students are given the great opportunity to lead the political race with the chance to participate in the upcoming Iowa caucuses.
