WASHINGTON (MEDIA GENERAL) – The Democratic and Republican presidential candidates are spending almost every waking hour shuttling across Iowa hoping to capture their party’s nomination. But, history shows a win in Iowa doesn’t guarantee a candidate’s nomination.
“Iowa is unlikely to certainly be a kingmaker, and in some ways the race will likely remain fluid for sometime,” said Matt Dalek, a political science professor for George Washington University.
To understand why the Iowa caucuses may attract a lot of attention from candidates, its important to remember Iowa is the first state to host a nominating contest.Past GOP Winners:
2012: Rick Santorum
2008: Mike Huckabee
2004: Incumbent President
2000: George W. Bush
1996: Bob Dole
1992: Incumbent PresidentPast Democratic Winners:
2012: Incumbent President
2008: Barack Obama
2004: John Kerry
2000: Al Gore
1996: Incumbent President
1992: Tom Harkin
Winning the Iowa caucus can certainly bring attention, donors, and instant front runner status but the celebration doesn’t always last especially with the New Hampshire primary just eight days after the first contest.
