Grabowska

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Caucus Shmaucus

I don't know what I was expecting when I walked into the caucus at Van Cleave Park in Minneapolis, but what I did not expect was to walk into chaos. Apparently earlier on in the day they decided to split the precinct because they were becoming worried at how many people were going to turn out this year. They were right in doing so, but unfortunately they also forgot to inform everyone of the split. People seemed angry and panicked as they were trying to figure out if they were supposed to stay at the park or if they belonged across the street at the church. I attended the caucus with a friend of mine because I was curious to see how many students at the U of M were supporting this years caucus. However, because of the disorganization I didn't even get a chance to ask questions.

After standing in line and watching the scene unfold before us, my friend and I just decided this was a waste of time. She went to check in and get a ballot to vote. They didn't even ask for her proof of residence or her ID. She was handed a scrap piece of computer paper and was asked to write the candidate's name down. She then dropped it into an ice cream bucket. Like I said, I didn't know what I was walking into, but I was expecting something a little more formal and a lot more organized. I don't see how any good came out of that caucus unless you enjoy wandering around confused.

3 Comments:

At February 7, 2008 at 9:20 AM , Blogger Katherine said...

Wow, and I thought the Cambridge caucus was too casual. They did request to see my ID, but otherwise there was just tables for people to sit and talk at; no real organization.
However, I don’t think one bad caucus experience should deter you from attending future caucuses. Though it may seem bleak and pointless to attend, you are getting your voice out, you are expressing your opinion, and you may even end up networking with people of similar – or different – beliefs.

 
At February 11, 2008 at 1:04 PM , Blogger Grabowska said...

I agree, and I'm not going to let one bad experience ruin it. I know it's important to be involved and opinionated. Thanks.

 
At February 12, 2008 at 11:04 AM , Blogger Strong said...

I too, didn't have a good experience at the caucus. I actually came to your blog because Rich said we had the same blog titles! That's really funny, but I can see that I wouldn't be the only one with the idea, 'Caucus Schmaucus' because it's exactly how I felt about it. I'll probably end up going in another two years, and hopefully they'll have their stuff together. This year, was pretty much just a waste of time, and nobody knew what to do, or what to talk about.

 

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