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the american presidential contest

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

how many people are genuinely interested in the two contests..... or is it just about the people you have heard of... Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton....

so how about Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Ben Carson, Chris Christie or John Kasich....or Jeb Bush

or on the other side, Bernie Sanders or Martin o'Malley

do you know the difference between the types of contests... a Primary (in New Hampshire and South Carolina) and a Caucus (in Iowa and Nevada)

Who is allowed to Vote in each type of contest

since the first state "contest" is next monday.... I thought it would be nice to keep it in one thread.... and for those who are genuinely interest to ask questions they may want to know, but don't know the answer to.... or have interesting opinions.....

I know me and Marc.Courtney tend to cover a lot of the stuff on the Dem side.... it would be nice if there was an impartial republican out there to cover the other side of the race.....

so anyone have any questions.... ask away.... I may even answer the question "just how does a caucus work".... and why a high turnout isn't really a high turnout.....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Have you pressed the donate button yet?!

-Courtney

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By *igeiaWoman
over a year ago

Bristol

I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Have you pressed the donate button yet?!

-Courtney "

not yet.... if it made you feel any better i did let out a little snigger when i mentioned political discussion and used the words "martin o malley" and "ben Carson"

p.s for anyone who is interested.... if you have ever seen the brilliant drama series "the wire"..... the character of the mayor is supposed based on martin o'malley.....(o'malley is a former mayor of baltimore)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Now idea how the election process works. And don't really take any interest in who is President. That said, I hope it's someone strong to stand up to Putin. Obama seems spineless

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By *ittie4UCouple
over a year ago

Watford

Impartial republican.

Is there such a thing?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Trying to choose between Donald Trump and Jeb Bush is like being asked which of these turds looks the the tastiest.

-

What truly scares me is how Trump is using his 'outspoken' views and 'gaff' commentary style to own so much air time that other candidates look like the also-rans before they are even out of the gate.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising."

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing

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By *igeiaWoman
over a year ago

Bristol


"I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising.

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing"

He's like the kid at school who disagrees with everything anyone says just to get attention. It's utterly fascinating.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Impartial republican.

Is there such a thing?"

fair point.....

I meant more a republican who is impartial to their group of candidates.......

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By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge

I know how it works, its crap and undemocratic.

I think it will be trump vs Clinton with a Clinton win. Dont ask me about VPs though

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By *andS66Couple
over a year ago

Derby


"Impartial republican.

Is there such a thing?"

Just as likely as an impartial Democrat apparently.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Hilary clinton. Dam id love to fuck her

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"I know how it works, its crap and undemocratic."

you are trying to take out of me the enjoyment of explaining just how a caucus works... and for the brits to say "REALLY???????"


"I think it will be trump vs Clinton with a Clinton win. Dont ask me about VPs though"

VP on the dem side is going to be easier to work out... i think any VP discussion for either sanders or clinton will have to go thru elizabeth warren (to be the name the establishment can get behind if it is sanders... and the name the progressives will be happy with it is is clinton)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

And now, an in depth discussion of swinging and pregnant chads - because someone mentioned Jeb Bush!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising.

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing"

Have you heard the recording of Cruz's former college roommate talking about how much he hates him on a radio program.

Might have been the funniest thing I've ever heard

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

How much damage do you think Obama's gun control law has done to Clinton's election chances?

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By *rightonsteveMan
over a year ago

Brighton - even Hove!

I think I'd prefer the democrats to win.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"And now, an in depth discussion of swinging and pregnant chads - because someone mentioned Jeb Bush!"

hanging chads........do you reckon gore is still crying... after that he did go a bit hippy and claim to have invented t'internet

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"How much damage do you think Obama's gun control law has done to Clinton's election chances?

"

i don't think it has because i don't think he did anything the base is unhappy with... or actually america in general....

the problem is the NRA has the loudest voice in the gun control debate... and throw money at it

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?"

It's never happened before so I don't think there is a standard for it.

I personally think we should call him first gentleman, as the male equivalent of first lady

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By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?"

I hope Clinton wins because then it will be the first time two US presidents have slept with each other

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By *igeiaWoman
over a year ago

Bristol


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?

It's never happened before so I don't think there is a standard for it.

I personally think we should call him first gentleman, as the male equivalent of first lady "

I think his title would be first gentleman but he would still be addressed as President Clinton when referring to him by name. That's if both standard title protocols are followed.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?"

yep.... bill would always be "Mr President"......

I think the fun thing is where we start calling him "the first dude" as well.......

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By *igeiaWoman
over a year ago

Bristol


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?

yep.... bill would always be "Mr President"......

I think the fun thing is where we start calling him "the first dude" as well....... "

In Australia the husband was referred to as the first bloke.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

We do have several American friends mostly buried in snow at the moment, so do worry a little about the extreme candidates apparent popularity, especially as the campaigns move forward where you expect to see more sensible candidates rising through the loony brigade.

But the whole process seems so drawn out that you need nutters to make it bearable. like we in the UK need the Monster Raving Loony party, but even they know they are not really going to win.

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By *LCCCouple
over a year ago

Cambridge


"I know how it works, its crap and undemocratic.

you are trying to take out of me the enjoyment of explaining just how a caucus works... and for the brits to say "REALLY???????"

I think it will be trump vs Clinton with a Clinton win. Dont ask me about VPs though

VP on the dem side is going to be easier to work out... i think any VP discussion for either sanders or clinton will have to go thru elizabeth warren (to be the name the establishment can get behind if it is sanders... and the name the progressives will be happy with it is is clinton) "

Its not just the caucases work, its the staggered primaries, the length of the campaining, the money involved, the electoral college vote system, the voting for the senate and the house which means its ALWAYS election season etc etc.

Our system in the UK has some serious flaws, but the American system is a lot worse in my opinion.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"How much damage do you think Obama's gun control law has done to Clinton's election chances?

i don't think it has because i don't think he did anything the base is unhappy with... or actually america in general....

the problem is the NRA has the loudest voice in the gun control debate... and throw money at it"

I just wonder if the republicans, coupled with the NRA will scarenonger that Obama's law was the start of full-force gun control - while Trump winds everyone up that Americans will not be able to defend their homes from the threat of terror. I mean, that's Texas in the bag right there.

Then there's HMOs and Obamacare.

Dont get me wrong, I'd vote Democrat (if I could vote) - I think that much of what Obama has done has been highly undervalued. Bill Clinton did much the same when he was in power.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

"

thank you.... great question!!!!!!

right.... in iowa there will be 1,000's of little meetings.... doors open at 6.30pm......... doors close and caucus meeting starts at 7........

they take a vote of who supports which candidates and who is undecided....

and candidate/group with less than 15% of the vote is immediately struck off as unviable.....

then the groups all try to persuade others as to why the others should support their candidate........

and they they vote again..... and so on till all votes count....

now... on the dem side.... this could be a very quick meeting.... basically sanders/clinton groups persuading the o'malleys and undecideds.....

on the rep side.... this meeting could go on for a lot lot longer............

they will talk about "high turnout" in iowa... as a total % of the voting population last time in 2008.... last time was considered as high as its gets..... it was 16%....

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By *icklybitMan
over a year ago

Ayrshire

Bill Murray the actor had stuck his oar in now, he might run!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Bill Murray the actor had stuck his oar in now, he might run!"

Well they've set a precedent for an actor in the Whitehouse.

Plus, 'Vote for Venkman' is a great slogan.

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By *mmabluTV/TS
over a year ago

upton wirral

Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler

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By *anejohnkent6263Couple
over a year ago

canterbury

go go trumper....as I have no interest in government things in usa or here seems to me they all out for themselves....wait for the in out eu vote to be fixed so we stay in as david wants

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler"

He has a fuckton of money and the media's attention. That makes him rich and powerful. I wouldn't doubt that man's intelligence for one minute.

You forget, they elected G.W twice over and that guy appeared to be a buffoon.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

thank you.... great question!!!!!!

snip."

Thanks, just to clarify is this open to all or just party members. i.e. can Democrats go to Republican as vice versa?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler"
.

Goddard's law!!

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

thank you.... great question!!!!!!

snip.

Thanks, just to clarify is this open to all or just party members. i.e. can Democrats go to Republican as vice versa? "

open to all... well those would will be 18 or later on election day (so 17yr olds get to take part in the pre-election process which is actually not a bad idea)

obviously the rep and dem meeting are happening at the same time so you can't go to both.....

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By *mmabluTV/TS
over a year ago

upton wirral

what is godddards law?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler"

Nobody gets and holds that sort of wealth without intelligence. low empathy maybe, if he gets power he will use it selfishly which will not be good for the people, mostly in America, but also to the rest of the world.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"what is godddards law?"
.

It's an observation made that... If the conversation is long enough no matter what the subject, even a discussion about cream teas.. Somebody will always mention the fucking Nazis

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By *mmabluTV/TS
over a year ago

upton wirral


"what is godddards law?.

It's an observation made that... If the conversation is long enough no matter what the subject, even a discussion about cream teas.. Somebody will always mention the fucking Nazis "

lol

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

thank you.... great question!!!!!!

snip.

Thanks, just to clarify is this open to all or just party members. i.e. can Democrats go to Republican as vice versa?

open to all... well those would will be 18 or later on election day (so 17yr olds get to take part in the pre-election process which is actually not a bad idea)

obviously the rep and dem meeting are happening at the same time so you can't go to both....."

May be worth a large number of the minority groups attending the Republican Caucus, though it is hard to know what the real situation is, international news only reports the loudest noise.

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By *yrdwomanWoman
over a year ago

Putting the 'cum' in Eboracum

I'm good thanks. I watch The West Wing.

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By *yrdwomanWoman
over a year ago

Putting the 'cum' in Eboracum


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler.

Goddard's law!! "

Godwin's.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"OK yes please, "just how does a caucus work"?

thank you.... great question!!!!!!

snip.

Thanks, just to clarify is this open to all or just party members. i.e. can Democrats go to Republican as vice versa?

open to all... well those would will be 18 or later on election day (so 17yr olds get to take part in the pre-election process which is actually not a bad idea)

obviously the rep and dem meeting are happening at the same time so you can't go to both....."
.

Come on let's take a quick bet on who wins the first one!.

I'll go with Bernie and Cruz... Just because I like to buck the polls

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

trump on the republican side....

of the Dem side... it is honestly going to be on turnout... if low Clinton wins.... if high Sanders wins

I'll say sanders.....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"trump on the republican side....

of the Dem side... it is honestly going to be on turnout... if low Clinton wins.... if high Sanders wins

I'll say sanders....."
.

Ooo so your half bucking the polls lol.

Trumps a shoe in for the first two, I just think he'll get found out in the latter stages

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By *reykiwi500Man
over a year ago

West Kent (near Tonbridge)


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler.

Goddard's law!! "

Godwin's law??

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler.

Goddard's law!!

Godwin's law??"
.

Grrr the memory's gone the same way as the enthusiasm

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler.

Goddard's law!!

Godwin's law??"

Yep, Goddard's law was when a group of Nazis discussing scones will sooner or later mention Godwin

Sorry Fabio, back to the election...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Just wondering is tonight the night?

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By *iamondjoeMan
over a year ago

Glastonbury


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler.

Goddard's law!! "

Hitler didn't have low intelligence and was, disturbingly, a political genius.

Which unmasks something very uncomfortable about the nature of politics.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

If Trump wins, just how fucked are the US/UK?

Do you think he'll actually do a good job?

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By *hoenixmanMan
over a year ago

Where men are men, and sheep are nervous...!


"If Trump wins, just how fucked are the US/UK?

Do you think he'll actually do a good job?"

His hairdresser might get a Congressional Medal of Honour.... sorry... HONOR!

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By *ost SockMan
over a year ago

West Wales and Cardiff

I was in the U.S. In a bus trip in the run up to the 2008.

I spent a lot of time with the Americans on the trip - two Democrats and a NYC blue-collar Republican. The standard of political knowledge and debate was fascinating - more informed than conversations I've heard here.

I'd love to hear them debating the front-runners this time!

I find US politics fascinating and enjoyed Christopher Hitchins' input on this. The length of the election process seems extraordinary though - the elected president can barely get his/her feet under the table before it all starts again.

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By *ost SockMan
over a year ago

West Wales and Cardiff

Meant to say - I loved The Wire. Had no idea O'Malley was based on the mayor. He was quite a piece of work.

I saw David Simon speak at the Hay Festival a few years ago - fascinating.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Just wondering is tonight the night?"

if it is a large voter turnout... look for trump and sanders to win..

if it is not a large turnout.... ted cruz and hilary clinton will win....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Just wondering is tonight the night?

if it is a large voter turnout... look for trump and sanders to win..

if it is not a large turnout.... ted cruz and hilary clinton will win...."

I think there is going to be a high voter turnout. I think Bernie and Trump have, for better or worse, galvanized the voter base. There has been a good deal of media attention as well.

-Courtney

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By *andS66Couple
over a year ago

Derby


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?

I hope Clinton wins because then it will be the first time two US presidents have slept with each other "

That we know of.....

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By *oodmessMan
over a year ago

yumsville

I did have the thought that Trump was somehow a patsy for the Republicans. By gaining them popularity, only to then bow out of the race. It may have been a dream I had so that then the other candidates (Jeb) would then be front runners. Trump would conveniently get very good contract deals when they gain office!

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By *verysmileMan
over a year ago

Canterbury


"I did have the thought that Trump was somehow a patsy for the Republicans. By gaining them popularity, only to then bow out of the race. It may have been a dream I had so that then the other candidates (Jeb) would then be front runners. Trump would conveniently get very good contract deals when they gain office! "

That may have been where this 'joke' started but we experienced a 'joke' candidate last year who went on to win convincingly.

So for better or worse, I think the man with the strange hair may be in the game to the last throw of the dice.....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Just wondering is tonight the night?

if it is a large voter turnout... look for trump and sanders to win..

if it is not a large turnout.... ted cruz and hilary clinton will win...."
.

Oooo exciting... When do we get the results

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

So, how do you think Hillary is feeling right now? Nervous? Angry? Confused?

-Courtney

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By *rightonsteveMan
over a year ago

Brighton - even Hove!

Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news. "

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Very pleased to see that Trump didn't win out, he'd have been completely insufferable (not that he isn't already); but it's no knock out blow

Really not sure what to make of the Democrats. Is it one Clinton too many ?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"So, how do you think Hillary is feeling right now? Nervous? Angry? Confused?

-Courtney "
.

I think she's feeling lucky and will probably get a tenner on the lottery with those odds... 5 out 5

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney "
.

Will the real slim crazy please stand up please stand up all you other crazies are just imitating

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney .

Will the real slim crazy please stand up please stand up all you other crazies are just imitating "

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Hey trump and Clinton hehe hey what's world coming to when these two people can be considered leaders in society ,nope sorry American politics isn't my fav subject now American women well some of them ,that's another story

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By *ee VianteWoman
over a year ago

Somewhere in North Norfolk


"how many people are genuinely interested in the two contests..... or is it just about the people you have heard of... Donald Trump and Hilary Clinton....

so how about Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Ben Carson, Chris Christie or John Kasich....or Jeb Bush

or on the other side, Bernie Sanders or Martin o'Malley

do you know the difference between the types of contests... a Primary (in New Hampshire and South Carolina) and a Caucus (in Iowa and Nevada)

Who is allowed to Vote in each type of contest

since the first state "contest" is next monday.... I thought it would be nice to keep it in one thread.... and for those who are genuinely interest to ask questions they may want to know, but don't know the answer to.... or have interesting opinions.....

I know me and Marc.Courtney tend to cover a lot of the stuff on the Dem side.... it would be nice if there was an impartial republican out there to cover the other side of the race.....

so anyone have any questions.... ask away.... I may even answer the question "just how does a caucus work".... and why a high turnout isn't really a high turnout....."

I know very little. I'm scared to find out much more because if I hear much more about Trump, my head may explode. His popularity in polls terrifies me.

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By *oward1978Man
over a year ago

Rotherham

Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?"

Election and voting laws in the United States are state specific (except for certain examples if federal involvement to stop unfair voting practices).

States can decide whether they want a primary or a caucus. A primary is a standard voting procedure with ballots. Caucuses are done in person and are usually more involved and personal. Caucuses aren't a ballot system. You publicly support/vote for someone in a caucus. Caucuses are the original way of voting for party candidates.

The fact that a few small states kick off the primary voting season is because party elections (which primaries effectively are) are state run, not federally run. So each state can set the date for its primary. Iowa and New Hampshire historically had theirs set earlier. Other states have tried to move up their primary dates at various times in the past, but the small states of Iowa and New Hampshire like the attention and power of voting first so they just move or threaten to move up their dates, too.

Voting basically boils down to delegates in primaries. Each states has a certain number of delegates depending on its population. Some states have a winner takes all approach where the candidate who gets the most votes gets all of the delegates. Other states, like Iowa, divide the delegates proportionately. Once all the states have had their primaries, the delegates go to the respective conventions and vote. Those delegates decide which candidates each party nominates for the general election.

Is that clearer?

- Courtney

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By *oward1978Man
over a year ago

Rotherham


"Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?

Election and voting laws in the United States are state specific (except for certain examples if federal involvement to stop unfair voting practices).

States can decide whether they want a primary or a caucus. A primary is a standard voting procedure with ballots. Caucuses are done in person and are usually more involved and personal. Caucuses aren't a ballot system. You publicly support/vote for someone in a caucus. Caucuses are the original way of voting for party candidates.

The fact that a few small states kick off the primary voting season is because party elections (which primaries effectively are) are state run, not federally run. So each state can set the date for its primary. Iowa and New Hampshire historically had theirs set earlier. Other states have tried to move up their primary dates at various times in the past, but the small states of Iowa and New Hampshire like the attention and power of voting first so they just move or threaten to move up their dates, too.

Voting basically boils down to delegates in primaries. Each states has a certain number of delegates depending on its population. Some states have a winner takes all approach where the candidate who gets the most votes gets all of the delegates. Other states, like Iowa, divide the delegates proportionately. Once all the states have had their primaries, the delegates go to the respective conventions and vote. Those delegates decide which candidates each party nominates for the general election.

Is that clearer?

- Courtney

"

Courtney that's marvellous! With that knowledge I can now go and look into things a bit deeper. TV over here tends to just skim over these basic things and I can get a bit lost. Thank you...expect more questions as the election rolls on.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Is as ever a joke.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Too complicated for little old me!

Aa long as the Trump /Palin freakshow doesn't get in I'm not bothered.

I do think the process needs simplifying and shortening. Put some money into those causes they're always championing, that they then ignore when they win.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I learnt everything I know about American politics and the voting system from Hunter S Thompson following George McGovern around on the '72 campaign trail. Fantastic book.

Is Bernie the new George though? And if he wins the democratic nomination will his campaign be an equal disaster?

Cruz seems to me to be a truly terrifying medieval religious fundamentalist, even more frightening than Trump. Politics everywhere appears to be moving to the extremes.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Well at least we know who's the best tosser out of Bernie or Clinton!.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I learnt everything I know about American politics and the voting system from Hunter S Thompson following George McGovern around on the '72 campaign trail. Fantastic book.

Is Bernie the new George though? And if he wins the democratic nomination will his campaign be an equal disaster?

Cruz seems to me to be a truly terrifying medieval religious fundamentalist, even more frightening than Trump. Politics everywhere appears to be moving to the extremes."

Cruz is terrifying. The masses concentrate on Trump because he has a big mouth. The informed watch Cruz because he is the real danger.

-Courtney

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By *ee VianteWoman
over a year ago

Somewhere in North Norfolk


"I learnt everything I know about American politics and the voting system from Hunter S Thompson following George McGovern around on the '72 campaign trail. Fantastic book.

Is Bernie the new George though? And if he wins the democratic nomination will his campaign be an equal disaster?

Cruz seems to me to be a truly terrifying medieval religious fundamentalist, even more frightening than Trump. Politics everywhere appears to be moving to the extremes.

Cruz is terrifying. The masses concentrate on Trump because he has a big mouth. The informed watch Cruz because he is the real danger.

-Courtney "

I'm keeping my head in the sand and hoping for the best until it's all over, since there's nothing I can do about it.

Scary times.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

The best thing about American politics is the word "gubernatorial", which makes my mouth feel funny when I say it

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By *ee VianteWoman
over a year ago

Somewhere in North Norfolk


"The best thing about American politics is the word "gubernatorial", which makes my mouth feel funny when I say it "

I love it when certain politicians talk about 'merkins' and the 'fight against tourists'.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark"

I did. I didn't find any numbers, but I did find the words "Made in Canada."

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Given the usual pattern of 2 terms, change party, and the number of non travelling introspective American citizens, I thing we need to prepare for a Republican president, and it looks like the choice is as bombastic as the Russian president...

Looks like the health and welfare budgets are going on munitions again

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark

I did. I didn't find any numbers, but I did find the words "Made in Canada."

-Courtney "

hmm perhaps I was wrong, and he has a sweet maple syrup core...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark

I did. I didn't find any numbers, but I did find the words "Made in Canada."

-Courtney "
.

I heard the rumble in the jungle was that some democrats were going to contend his American birth right as his mother was registered for Canadian voting rights?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark

I did. I didn't find any numbers, but I did find the words "Made in Canada."

-Courtney .

I heard the rumble in the jungle was that some democrats were going to contend his American birth right as his mother was registered for Canadian voting rights?"

I've heard it too. His being born in Canada along with her voting rights might be enough to at least put it into question. In any case it would be an important issue for the Supreme Court to clarify. Though I'm not sure who would have standing to bring the lawsuit.

I just see it as the pinnacle of irony. Obama must have a special smile reserved for questions about Cruz's birth.

-Courtney

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI

I'm very interested.

I was shocked (but I don't know why) at how well Rubio did last night.

If Hillary wins the Democratic nomination then she should see if there's a good latino candidate for VP.

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI

As far as I've heard (from Lawrence O'Donnell) the issue of whether Cruz is able to be president is not a settled legal matter.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Has anyone checked cruzs head for the birth mark

I did. I didn't find any numbers, but I did find the words "Made in Canada."

-Courtney .

I heard the rumble in the jungle was that some democrats were going to contend his American birth right as his mother was registered for Canadian voting rights?

I've heard it too. His being born in Canada along with her voting rights might be enough to at least put it into question. In any case it would be an important issue for the Supreme Court to clarify. Though I'm not sure who would have standing to bring the lawsuit.

I just see it as the pinnacle of irony. Obama must have a special smile reserved for questions about Cruz's birth.

-Courtney "
.

I'm not really a big beliver in karma but....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Does my bookie pay out on "virtual ties"... Does he fuck... Fucking coin toss... I had a tenner riding on that .

When's new Hampshire... I'm thinking double or quits

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney "

to make the democratic hilary/bernie thing even more bizarre... they actually both won 44 counties in iowa each.... and the contests were even in 6 counties to the point where delegates were decided by who won the toss of a coin (hilary actually won all 6......... odds on that happens..1.6%!)

so my big winners and losers on the iowa night...

on the republican side

winner.... ted cruz.... he had to!!! and delivered

winner... marco rubio... the leading establishment candidate

loser... donald trump... couldn't get his base out

loser.. bye mike huckabee.....

loser... ben carson.... the 3rd anti establishment wheel.... i think you see him beginning to get eaten up by trump and cruz......

on the democratic side....

winner.... bernie sanders.... the fact he was this close and can be seen to have given hilary a black eye....can very much claim the moral victory and the momentum going into new hampshire.... wins large next week!!!!

winner.... hilary.... just!!!! even if it is just statistical could not afford to lose

loser..... bye bye martin o'malley.....

winner..... any other establishment dem taking a 2nd thought at running (thats you joe biden!!!!!) if hilary starts to crack.... watch out!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney

to make the democratic hilary/bernie thing even more bizarre... they actually both won 44 counties in iowa each.... and the contests were even in 6 counties to the point where delegates were decided by who won the toss of a coin (hilary actually won all 6......... odds on that happens..1.6%!)

so my big winners and losers on the iowa night...

on the republican side

winner.... ted cruz.... he had to!!! and delivered

winner... marco rubio... the leading establishment candidate

loser... donald trump... couldn't get his base out

loser.. bye mike huckabee.....

loser... ben carson.... the 3rd anti establishment wheel.... i think you see him beginning to get eaten up by trump and cruz......

on the democratic side....

winner.... bernie sanders.... the fact he was this close and can be seen to have given hilary a black eye....can very much claim the moral victory and the momentum going into new hampshire.... wins large next week!!!!

winner.... hilary.... just!!!! even if it is just statistical could not afford to lose

loser..... bye bye martin o'malley.....

winner..... any other establishment dem taking a 2nd thought at running (thats you joe biden!!!!!) if hilary starts to crack.... watch out!"

There isn't a chance that Biden is running. That ship has sailed.

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By *inky-MinxWoman
over a year ago

Grantham


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler

He has a fuckton of money and the media's attention. That makes him rich and powerful. I wouldn't doubt that man's intelligence for one minute.

You forget, they elected G.W twice over and that guy appeared to be a buffoon. "

You're right

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Who got selected? I've not seen any news.

It was just the Iowa Caucuses. But Hillary (49.9%) and Bernie (49.6%) are basically tied, with a difference of only one delegate.

The republicans have Cruz (28%), Trump (24%), Rubio (23%).

Delegates are handed out proportionally from the Iowa Caucuses.

-Courtney

to make the democratic hilary/bernie thing even more bizarre... they actually both won 44 counties in iowa each.... and the contests were even in 6 counties to the point where delegates were decided by who won the toss of a coin (hilary actually won all 6......... odds on that happens..1.6%!)

so my big winners and losers on the iowa night...

on the republican side

winner.... ted cruz.... he had to!!! and delivered

winner... marco rubio... the leading establishment candidate

loser... donald trump... couldn't get his base out

loser.. bye mike huckabee.....

loser... ben carson.... the 3rd anti establishment wheel.... i think you see him beginning to get eaten up by trump and cruz......

on the democratic side....

winner.... bernie sanders.... the fact he was this close and can be seen to have given hilary a black eye....can very much claim the moral victory and the momentum going into new hampshire.... wins large next week!!!!

winner.... hilary.... just!!!! even if it is just statistical could not afford to lose

loser..... bye bye martin o'malley.....

winner..... any other establishment dem taking a 2nd thought at running (thats you joe biden!!!!!) if hilary starts to crack.... watch out!

There isn't a chance that Biden is running. That ship has sailed."
.

Hes probably too busy helping his son frack most of east Ukraine!.

If it ain't Bernie it ain't worth shit

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising."

I'm currently addicted to the west wing...I can't stop watching!!! In reality

I don't like that they spend millions of pounds on campaigns that can be better spent or the idea that a twat such as Donal trump is actually in the running,

But then Cameron and hunt got in

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI

Hillary was the dog's bollocks in that debate. Although Bernie's closing statement about his dad nearly brought a tear to my eye.

She comes across and strong, confident and capable.

I prefer Bernie's policies but he'd have armageddon on his hands trying to get them through congress.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Hillary was the dog's bollocks in that debate. Although Bernie's closing statement about his dad nearly brought a tear to my eye.

She comes across and strong, confident and capable.

I prefer Bernie's policies but he'd have armageddon on his hands trying to get them through congress. "

i have to agree....Bernie was better in the CNN Town hall, but i do think Hilary shaded it in the debate (bernie for once really looked shaky on the foreign policy selection)

bernie had the better of the back end.... especially the domestic stuff with regards to flint.... which was a surprise for me because hilary should have knocked that one out of the park.... but bernie was brilliant there...

if bernie can explain in detail and simply how people will be better off under his health plan and make the arguement stick, i think where he stands could get better....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Hillary is a wall St shrill, she didn't get 10 million bucks off them for just bleeding speeches, it's how the game works!...

I went in there and I said.. Hey knock it off! Big fucking deal you wall St parasite.

You actually get better and more honest answers about money and politics from trump than you do from Hillary!

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By *oachman 9CoolMan
over a year ago

derby


"And now, an in depth discussion of swinging and pregnant chads - because someone mentioned Jeb Bush!"
I think hilary should nominate her hubby Back as president, the lewinsky case will never lose favour with the public as joe public loves a bit of scandal he Would soon be in the limelight again.. for the wrong reasons...

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By *oachman 9CoolMan
over a year ago

derby


"Silly question here - so Hillary Clinton wins, becomes Madam President, Bill is still Mr President though right, because that's what previous presidents are called? Or does he get some kind of Prince Phillip Duke of Edinburgh type title so he's not (excuse the pun) trumping her?

I hope Clinton wins because then it will be the first time two US presidents have slept with each other "
This...

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

last debate before the new hampshire primary last night..... this time on the republican side

the biggest loser last night was marco rubio... he got it from all quarters last night, and was crushed cris christie and jeb bush...... and generally looked awful!!!!

bernie sanders was on saturday night live last night with larry david... and was really funny.....

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI


"

the biggest loser last night was marco rubio... he got it from all quarters last night, and was crushed cris christie and jeb bush...... and generally looked awful!!!!

"

His performance was woeful.

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI

Trump just called Cruz a pussy live on tv

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!! "

Have you pressed the donate button yet??

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!!

Have you pressed the donate button yet?? "

not yet...... getting close....

I think bernie wins nevada and there is going to be a ton on pressure put on elizabeth warren to endorse hillary (you know the words vice president will be used)

the longer warren doesn't endorse hillary the better for bernie

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!!

Have you pressed the donate button yet??

not yet...... getting close....

I think bernie wins nevada and there is going to be a ton on pressure put on elizabeth warren to endorse hillary (you know the words vice president will be used)

the longer warren doesn't endorse hillary the better for bernie"

I think warren is staying out of this. Isn't she close with bernie?

And no way is she getting a VP nod. She wouldn't pick up the right votes.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!!

Have you pressed the donate button yet??

not yet...... getting close....

I think bernie wins nevada and there is going to be a ton on pressure put on elizabeth warren to endorse hillary (you know the words vice president will be used)

the longer warren doesn't endorse hillary the better for bernie

I think warren is staying out of this. Isn't she close with bernie?

And no way is she getting a VP nod. She wouldn't pick up the right votes."

she may be closer to bernie than hillary.... but if hillary is going to go moderate in the general election the progessive left will end up having to be appeased..

bernie wins tonight..... bernie wins in nevada and then game on in south carolina....

i am now glued to msnbc till 8.05 eastern when i expect them to call both races....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"the polls close at midnight our time.... and i am sure they will call both races at 5 past midnight.... looking forward to bernie's victory speech!!!!!

Have you pressed the donate button yet??

not yet...... getting close....

I think bernie wins nevada and there is going to be a ton on pressure put on elizabeth warren to endorse hillary (you know the words vice president will be used)

the longer warren doesn't endorse hillary the better for bernie

I think warren is staying out of this. Isn't she close with bernie?

And no way is she getting a VP nod. She wouldn't pick up the right votes."
.

We had this discussion last night, they always give the vp job to the evil sinister bastard who takes over once they have an unlucky accident, like one bullet shooting you three times and the guy next to you twice .

That's very unlucky

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By *bovethekneeCouple
over a year ago

Hampshire / Herefordshire

A question that has always interested me is that there is a huge amount of money spent on tv adverts for the campaigns, but do people actually watch them? Certainly I cannot remember deliberately watching a UK party political broadcast. Do they simply reinforce opinion or actually sway it?

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"A question that has always interested me is that there is a huge amount of money spent on tv adverts for the campaigns, but do people actually watch them? Certainly I cannot remember deliberately watching a UK party political broadcast. Do they simply reinforce opinion or actually sway it?"

they are like 30-60 second spots in commercial breaks so you can't really avoid them...... you tend to see more negative attack ads then those being positive..... so it can sway a bit.....

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI

Fabio, did you catch Hillary's interview with Rachel Maddow last night?

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Fabio, did you catch Hillary's interview with Rachel Maddow last night? "

I did.... and to be honest i wasn't that impressed, she has done better, she may have as well just thrown in the towel, and i am not sure it will end up playing well with the people she needs to keep or attract....

have to say i was actually more fascinated with the semi interview she did with chris christie

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI


"Fabio, did you catch Hillary's interview with Rachel Maddow last night?

I did.... and to be honest i wasn't that impressed, she has done better, she may have as well just thrown in the towel, and i am not sure it will end up playing well with the people she needs to keep or attract....

have to say i was actually more fascinated with the semi interview she did with chris christie"

I thought the interview went well, but maybe I'm biased.

It did highlight for me though how spin, however incorrect, works and that mud sticks.

Rachel's talk around her CC interview was hilarious - she finally got him.

And I really don't like Brian Williams, I want Chris Hayes

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Fabio, did you catch Hillary's interview with Rachel Maddow last night?

I did.... and to be honest i wasn't that impressed, she has done better, she may have as well just thrown in the towel, and i am not sure it will end up playing well with the people she needs to keep or attract....

have to say i was actually more fascinated with the semi interview she did with chris christie

I thought the interview went well, but maybe I'm biased.

It did highlight for me though how spin, however incorrect, works and that mud sticks.

Rachel's talk around her CC interview was hilarious - she finally got him.

And I really don't like Brian Williams, I want Chris Hayes "

the problem with hillary is just that she is so smooth and her campaign is such a big machine it doesn't let her be her..... and thats where sanders does win... he comes across a lot better than hillary flip flopping on positions......

i am looking forward to the day maddow gets to interview trump...... that would be interesting...and i think christie came across well, but i can see why republican politicians stear well clear.....

see the perfect progressive answer would be warren as vp... and the rumour was that because maddow lives just outside boston they were going to try and get her in that Mass senate seat... either her or Caroline Kennedy......

as for who should co-host msnbc coverage with Rachel.... I like Brian Williams way better than lester holt for example... and as good as chris hayes is, he is nowhere near experienced enough....

I did like the Rachel maddow/ Chuck Todd combo at the last debate... and I think Chuck does a great job at MTP....... but if you wanted a newcomer...Luke Russert????

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By *anchestercubMan
over a year ago

manchester & NI


"Fabio, did you catch Hillary's interview with Rachel Maddow last night?

I did.... and to be honest i wasn't that impressed, she has done better, she may have as well just thrown in the towel, and i am not sure it will end up playing well with the people she needs to keep or attract....

have to say i was actually more fascinated with the semi interview she did with chris christie

I thought the interview went well, but maybe I'm biased.

It did highlight for me though how spin, however incorrect, works and that mud sticks.

Rachel's talk around her CC interview was hilarious - she finally got him.

And I really don't like Brian Williams, I want Chris Hayes

the problem with hillary is just that she is so smooth and her campaign is such a big machine it doesn't let her be her..... and thats where sanders does win... he comes across a lot better than hillary flip flopping on positions......

i am looking forward to the day maddow gets to interview trump...... that would be interesting...and i think christie came across well, but i can see why republican politicians stear well clear.....

see the perfect progressive answer would be warren as vp... and the rumour was that because maddow lives just outside boston they were going to try and get her in that Mass senate seat... either her or Caroline Kennedy......

as for who should co-host msnbc coverage with Rachel.... I like Brian Williams way better than lester holt for example... and as good as chris hayes is, he is nowhere near experienced enough....

I did like the Rachel maddow/ Chuck Todd combo at the last debate... and I think Chuck does a great job at MTP....... but if you wanted a newcomer...Luke Russert???? "

Luke Russert is cute and a bit cheeky, I don't mind him but I'd rather have Ari Melber

Chris Hayes's smile just melts me though

I really like Chris Jansing too, she's super hot

I think Hillary is polished and smooth because she's very put together. She's been First Lady, a senator and in cabinet. It would be very difficult not to have fulfilled all those roles, and all the attacks and negativity that come with them, and not be a bit like Teflon.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"Now idea how the election process works. And don't really take any interest in who is President. That said, I hope it's someone strong to stand up to Putin. Obama seems spineless "

Or just sensibly causes maybe?

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"Impartial republican.

Is there such a thing?"

I'm sure there is

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"I was a little bit obsessed with The West Wing and love the Daily Show so I have a rough idea. Plus I had a Californian housemate back at uni during an election so got him to explain a bit about how it all worked. Cruz makes my jaw drop but then I'd probably be a Democrat if I were American so that's not unsurprising.

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing"

The only think going for Cruz (a religious fanatic) is the fact that he is not Trump.

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By *entaur_UKMan
over a year ago

Cannock

Looks like Trump has Trumped New Hampshire for the Republicans, Bernie Sanders for the Democrats.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"Trump is a very dangerous man with low intelligence like Hitler"

I agree he's dangerous but I wouldn't under estimate his intelligence. I think that's the big mistake that everyone has made about Trump so far, including those that like him.

And, whether true or not, any comparisons of any one to Hitler tend to reflect more badly on those making them than on those they are comparing.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"Looks like Trump has Trumped New Hampshire for the Republicans, Bernie Sanders for the Democrats. "

A mad dash to the extremes. Of the current front runners the only one I would consider a credible candidate is Hilary Clinton. Whether I'd actually vote for her I'm not sure. Probably would to keep Trump out but not sure about whether I would to keep Cruz or J. Bush out.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?

Election and voting laws in the United States are state specific (except for certain examples if federal involvement to stop unfair voting practices).

States can decide whether they want a primary or a caucus. A primary is a standard voting procedure with ballots. Caucuses are done in person and are usually more involved and personal. Caucuses aren't a ballot system. You publicly support/vote for someone in a caucus. Caucuses are the original way of voting for party candidates.

The fact that a few small states kick off the primary voting season is because party elections (which primaries effectively are) are state run, not federally run. So each state can set the date for its primary. Iowa and New Hampshire historically had theirs set earlier. Other states have tried to move up their primary dates at various times in the past, but the small states of Iowa and New Hampshire like the attention and power of voting first so they just move or threaten to move up their dates, too.

Voting basically boils down to delegates in primaries. Each states has a certain number of delegates depending on its population. Some states have a winner takes all approach where the candidate who gets the most votes gets all of the delegates. Other states, like Iowa, divide the delegates proportionately. Once all the states have had their primaries, the delegates go to the respective conventions and vote. Those delegates decide which candidates each party nominates for the general election.

Is that clearer?

- Courtney

"

Are the delegates legally bound to vote according to what the primary/caucus results were or can they change there mind at the convention?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?"

I understand it having studied it, I just find it really difficult to care enough to follow until the numbers have been whittled down to the two actually contesting the election.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Just to go back to the OP's original post...I don't know if it's just me being stupid but I admit I find the whole Presidential election process baffling. It's fascinating and I can follow it but I find I don't fully understand the technicalities and complexities of it all. If anyone can give me the skinny on the actual process and why we're going through all this it would be much appreciated.

For example, I've no idea what is meant by Primary and Caucus. And just why does it all start off with these handful of states? Is that just some historical thing? And what happens next?

Election and voting laws in the United States are state specific (except for certain examples if federal involvement to stop unfair voting practices).

States can decide whether they want a primary or a caucus. A primary is a standard voting procedure with ballots. Caucuses are done in person and are usually more involved and personal. Caucuses aren't a ballot system. You publicly support/vote for someone in a caucus. Caucuses are the original way of voting for party candidates.

The fact that a few small states kick off the primary voting season is because party elections (which primaries effectively are) are state run, not federally run. So each state can set the date for its primary. Iowa and New Hampshire historically had theirs set earlier. Other states have tried to move up their primary dates at various times in the past, but the small states of Iowa and New Hampshire like the attention and power of voting first so they just move or threaten to move up their dates, too.

Voting basically boils down to delegates in primaries. Each states has a certain number of delegates depending on its population. Some states have a winner takes all approach where the candidate who gets the most votes gets all of the delegates. Other states, like Iowa, divide the delegates proportionately. Once all the states have had their primaries, the delegates go to the respective conventions and vote. Those delegates decide which candidates each party nominates for the general election.

Is that clearer?

- Courtney

Are the delegates legally bound to vote according to what the primary/caucus results were or can they change there mind at the convention? "

It depends on the state. In some states they are and in some they aren't. But the delegates are chosen as pledged delegates. They are chosen by the parties based on who they support. So they will likely vote for the person they are supposed to, anyway.

If you want to make things a bit more complicated, there are also super delegates. These people are separate from the pledged delegates. They get to go to the convention because of their former position, not because of the primaries. And unlike pledged delegates, super delegates can vote for whoever they want, irrespective of the outcomes of the primaries and caucuses.

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Feel the Bern .

Ok Fabio what's the polling in south Carolina

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing

The only think going for Cruz (a religious fanatic) is the fact that he is not Trump."

i think most people would say that the other way round... the one thing going for trump is that he is not Ted Cruz.....

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By *its_n_piecesCouple
over a year ago


"Now idea how the election process works. And don't really take any interest in who is President. That said, I hope it's someone strong to stand up to Putin. Obama seems spineless "

you might want to read this article in todays press then ....

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2016/feb/10/uk-to-contribute-five-extra-ships-to-baltic-as-nato-boosts-presence

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Feel the Bern .

Ok Fabio what's the polling in south Carolina"

this is where there is a slight split in schedules.... the republicans next go to south to south carolina..... the democrats actually go to nevada next (which is a caucus state) then go onto south carolina.....

I think bernie wins nevada hands down.....

and then south carolina... trump wins again on the republican side, we will see who drops out after last night (which i may talk about in a mo)

on the democratic side... it should be hillary, but this is where we now start to see if bernie can get any traction at all with minorities... if he can then there is a genuine path to the nomination....

this is where hilary will try to go and crush any bernie momentum before the southern super tuesday

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

winners and losers from last night.....

on the democratic side...

Winner - Bernie Sanders, Bernie managed to get out the vote last night....had to win and did....

loser (big) - Hilary Clinton, for as much as the clinton machine will spin bernie won because he was from "next door"... howard dean didn't win NH when he was gov of vermont.... and Hilary clinton beat Obama in NH in 2008.......

you can lose.... you can't lose by 23%!!!!

on the Republican side...

Winner - Donald Trump, like bernie... got out the vote and had to win....

Winner (Big) - John Kasich, won the 3 way battle of the governors! and lets see how he does in SC

Loser - Marco Rubio, and momentum out of iowa was well and truely crushed on saturday night... the one gimmer of light tonight, his chief tormentor had a worse night......

speaking of which....

Loser (Big) - Chris Christie, loser in the battle of the governors... his campaign was NH or bust.... it busted!!

Loser (Big) - Ben Carson, squeezed of of the anti establishment lane but trump and cruz

Loser - Carly Fiorina, gained no traction at all....

I expect those three to drop out before SC......

which leaves i believe the republican field down to 5..... trump, kasich, rubio, cruz and jeb...

Cruz will hold on till southern super tuesday regardless as he knows he will win on or two of those states......

Jeb... interesting... will he try and take on trump, or will be try and take on marco... one left standing will get all the establishment money behind them...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Fabio, what do you think about Kasich? I was pretty damn surprised! Poor man was forgotten at the last debate and then busts out in the NH primary! What do you think happened there?

-Courtney

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Fabio, what do you think about Kasich? I was pretty damn surprised! Poor man was forgotten at the last debate and then busts out in the NH primary! What do you think happened there?

-Courtney "

he went out with the same "NH or bust" strategy as Christie.. and was the main beneficary of the marco meltdown on saturday....

having gone to uni in michigan, i know a fair few ohio folks... and they can't stand him! he is pragmatic as he will get hammered from all sides... democrats hate him, republicans aren't fans as he was one of the few republican govenors to take the extra obamacare money offered to help ohio people.....

this is where we find out if a republican midwestern governor will do well in the south (my bet is nope!!!!!)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Fabio, what do you think about Kasich? I was pretty damn surprised! Poor man was forgotten at the last debate and then busts out in the NH primary! What do you think happened there?

-Courtney

he went out with the same "NH or bust" strategy as Christie.. and was the main beneficary of the marco meltdown on saturday....

having gone to uni in michigan, i know a fair few ohio folks... and they can't stand him! he is pragmatic as he will get hammered from all sides... democrats hate him, republicans aren't fans as he was one of the few republican govenors to take the extra obamacare money offered to help ohio people.....

this is where we find out if a republican midwestern governor will do well in the south (my bet is nope!!!!!)"

Nah, he's gunna get roasted in the south.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Fabio, what do you think about Kasich? I was pretty damn surprised! Poor man was forgotten at the last debate and then busts out in the NH primary! What do you think happened there?

-Courtney

he went out with the same "NH or bust" strategy as Christie.. and was the main beneficary of the marco meltdown on saturday....

having gone to uni in michigan, i know a fair few ohio folks... and they can't stand him! he is pragmatic as he will get hammered from all sides... democrats hate him, republicans aren't fans as he was one of the few republican govenors to take the extra obamacare money offered to help ohio people.....

this is where we find out if a republican midwestern governor will do well in the south (my bet is nope!!!!!)

Nah, he's gunna get roasted in the south. "

so then in which case you have trump/cruz vs rubio/jeb...... so pick your poison....

i think you could now have a reasonable arguement that the republican nomination is secured earlier than the democratic one.... which is something i don't think you would have said before....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm personally not that bothered about the Republicans, there all nuts in different ways!.

I find Blombergs comments of maybe running quite interesting.

I suspect he'd only run against Bernie as theyve already paid Hillary to do whatever they want!.

Anyhow regardless of whether it's Bernie or Hillary I couldn't see any of the current Republican candidates beating either of them

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

christie and carly both drop out of the republican race.........

this is where we find out if bernie can get any traction in the south with minority candidates.... I actually had a chat with my cousins in atlanta and where they would have been staunch clinton supporters, they are giving sanders a proper look...... and have been impressed

oh.. courtney..... i wavered again over the donate button last night...... almost in but not quite!!!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I know how it works, its crap and undemocratic.

I think it will be trump vs Clinton with a Clinton win. Dont ask me about VPs though"

Sorry disagree.. The message coming through on media in States is Clinton=big money don't trust as she will look after only a few.... On other side lower class / middle class white collars are thinking Trump is one of theirs...

No one thought that an actor could be come President and RR did - he might have just been an actor but he was not daft and his wife was pushing stuff through....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"christie and carly both drop out of the republican race.........

this is where we find out if bernie can get any traction in the south with minority candidates.... I actually had a chat with my cousins in atlanta and where they would have been staunch clinton supporters, they are giving sanders a proper look...... and have been impressed

oh.. courtney..... i wavered again over the donate button last night...... almost in but not quite!!!! "

You're such a tease!

Its about time Carly dropped out. She was obsolete from the start.

-Courtney

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead

right... just so you guys know the agenda in the next 3 weeks... its slightly split...

Saturday 20th feb,

Nevada Democratic Caucus

South Carolina Republican Primary

Saturday 27th Feb,

South Carolina Democratic Primary

Tuesday March 1st... the first of the super tuesday....this one has been nicknamed the "SEC super tuesday" because most of the south vote on that day with the exception of florida....

the states that vote on march 1st are.... Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Virginia. ...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I am fascinated by the whole thing if only because I can't believe a country searching for independence came up with such a convoluted and expensive way to do Democracy. Forget the individual State legislatures but at Federal level there are three sources of legislation and three sources of conflict. Given there is a two party system those two will rarely fit into the three: President, House and Senate.

Presidents are elected every 4 years but spend two years as either a Candidate (again) or a lame duck.

The House is elected every 2 years. Again a source of conflict not good Government.

Senators are elected for 6 years but elections are held every two years. Again not a good format for good Government.

And when you consider that House and Senate candidates spent over $3.7 Billion at the last 'Mid Terms' it just seems that US democracy is only available to very rich people. Again not a good format for good Government.

And it clearly fails when we all hear that word' Sequestration' and Government shuts down. So to me all this endless Caucus, Primary, Convention, and election for just one person which cost some $2.2 Billion in 2012 just defeats me. Oh and that figure was AFTER the two candidates had been chosen!

I guess I would like Hilary to win and continue a Democrat Presidency as she knows how the game is played, she has paid her dues, she knows her way round the world and is actually liked mostly outside the USA. But she will be a lame duck unless the House elections also in November elect a Democrat House. Same goes for Bernie who I think brings an almost European view.

As for Trump? Well I think he will win the Republican Nomination by a mile and defeat Hilary to the White House .... And then watch Putin cause trouble and the Arab world go ballistic. Israel will by then have caused a crisis somewhere to make sure he will win.

Forgive me OP but I love the USA but your country is in a deep hole for a bunch of reasons. Trump isn't the answer and your electoral system isn't designed to find that 21st Century answer. IMHO. Sorry.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Christie and Fiorina have dropped out.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-35546599

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Oddly despite being a complete fruitcake it might take Trump being elected to reign in the ambitions of a resurgent and very dangerous Russia.

If they genuinely believe there is an idiot with his finger on the button in the White House, the Soviet Union, sorry Russia, may be dissuaded from taking back a few Eastern European satellite states.

Make no mistake, having enriched himself, sanctioned murder as a tool of the state, by proxy shot down the Malaysian airliner, amassed a wealth suspected to make him the worlds richest person, nuclear terrorism on the streets of London, Putin can never relinquish his power. The threats he would face out of office mean he is de facto head of state for life. Seeing himself as a modern day Peter the great he will not settle for merely taking back the Crimea.

But believing the white house has another dangerous idiot in the mould of Regan in power may be all that stops the newly invigorated and very technically advanced Russian military from flexing its muscles in this direction.

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By *an_WoodMan
over a year ago

Stafford

Christie is such a loss

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By *its_n_piecesCouple
over a year ago

wake me up on november 9th

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"Oddly despite being a complete fruitcake it might take Trump being elected to reign in the ambitions of a resurgent and very dangerous Russia.

If they genuinely believe there is an idiot with his finger on the button in the White House, the Soviet Union, sorry Russia, may be dissuaded from taking back a few Eastern European satellite states.

Make no mistake, having enriched himself, sanctioned murder as a tool of the state, by proxy shot down the Malaysian airliner, amassed a wealth suspected to make him the worlds richest person, nuclear terrorism on the streets of London, Putin can never relinquish his power. The threats he would face out of office mean he is de facto head of state for life. Seeing himself as a modern day Peter the great he will not settle for merely taking back the Crimea.

But believing the white house has another dangerous idiot in the mould of Regan in power may be all that stops the newly invigorated and very technically advanced Russian military from flexing its muscles in this direction. "
.

Maybe he'll annex Finland back into Russia, or Belarus or Georgia...

Maybe the Germans are looking for the new Prussia.

Anything is possible but.... Also highly unlikely!.

In Russia, Putin is highly liked, in fact they fucking love him!

You know why, they think he sticks up for Russia against western imperialism!... Haha the irony of needing trump to solve that is chuckle inducing

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"I am fascinated by the whole thing if only because I can't believe a country searching for independence came up with such a convoluted and expensive way to do Democracy. Forget the individual State legislatures but at Federal level there are three sources of legislation and three sources of conflict. Given there is a two party system those two will rarely fit into the three: President, House and Senate.

Presidents are elected every 4 years but spend two years as either a Candidate (again) or a lame duck.

The House is elected every 2 years. Again a source of conflict not good Government.

Senators are elected for 6 years but elections are held every two years. Again not a good format for good Government.

And when you consider that House and Senate candidates spent over $3.7 Billion at the last 'Mid Terms' it just seems that US democracy is only available to very rich people. Again not a good format for good Government.

And it clearly fails when we all hear that word' Sequestration' and Government shuts down. So to me all this endless Caucus, Primary, Convention, and election for just one person which cost some $2.2 Billion in 2012 just defeats me. Oh and that figure was AFTER the two candidates had been chosen!

I guess I would like Hilary to win and continue a Democrat Presidency as she knows how the game is played, she has paid her dues, she knows her way round the world and is actually liked mostly outside the USA. But she will be a lame duck unless the House elections also in November elect a Democrat House. Same goes for Bernie who I think brings an almost European view.

As for Trump? Well I think he will win the Republican Nomination by a mile and defeat Hilary to the White House .... And then watch Putin cause trouble and the Arab world go ballistic. Israel will by then have caused a crisis somewhere to make sure he will win.

Forgive me OP but I love the USA but your country is in a deep hole for a bunch of reasons. Trump isn't the answer and your electoral system isn't designed to find that 21st Century answer. IMHO. Sorry."
.Who the fuck likes federal government...

Apparently not many American's, they think it's distant, corrupt, out of touch with local issues, and interfering....

Yeah the perfect model for the EU

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By *its_n_piecesCouple
over a year ago


" Who the fuck likes federal government..."

... or any kind of government for that matter?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" Who the fuck likes federal government...

... or any kind of government for that matter?"

Oh there are many Governments I dislike but I am quite happy with our form of Government with its odd unwritten Constitution and a non political Head of State and one legislature. the system works fine its what goes into it is a worry ...

Our 2010 election cost us £84.5 Million to actually run and the Parties spent some £31.5 Million. The Democrats spent $16.8 Million and Republicans spent $36 Million in just advertising in Iowa alone this month

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By *its_n_piecesCouple
over a year ago

the system doesn't work fine

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"the system doesn't work fine"

Care to say why not? We get the Governments the majority vote for ....Unless I have missed something?

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By *its_n_piecesCouple
over a year ago

a third of the population is not the majority

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing

The only think going for Cruz (a religious fanatic) is the fact that he is not Trump.

i think most people would say that the other way round... the one thing going for trump is that he is not Ted Cruz....."

Not to be a defendant of Cruz but I beg to differ. Cruz is a religious man, bordering on fundamentalist. This, while worrying, is not something both the US and the world does not know how to handle and deal with. Trump is a dangerous, populist demagogue who wants 'to make America great again'. This sounds very Putinesque to me. I'm really not sure the world could survive that.

In difficult and uncertain times like now people tend to be attracted to the extremes of their own bias. This can lead to extremist candidates seeming to gain traction within their own parties. However, when the general public actually come to vote they tend to vote for the reasonable, sensible and pragmatic. In my estimation the only candidate out of the four front runners across the parties that comes anywhere near that is Hillary Clinton.

So, my perspective is:-

God help America if Cruz or Sanders wins but God help the world if Trump wins.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"a third of the population is not the majority "

Technically a majority does not have to be more than half of a sample, it can just be the largest group in the sample, that's why we also have the term 'over all majority'.

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By *nleashedCrakenMan
over a year ago

Widnes


"christie and carly both drop out of the republican race.........

this is where we find out if bernie can get any traction in the south with minority candidates.... I actually had a chat with my cousins in atlanta and where they would have been staunch clinton supporters, they are giving sanders a proper look...... and have been impressed

oh.. courtney..... i wavered again over the donate button last night...... almost in but not quite!!!! "

I wonder, if you thought the Republicans were likely to have a candidate that would have more cross party appeal than either Trump or Cruz would Democrats be less inclined to go for Sanders.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"a third of the population is not the majority "

Well given that each MP has to have the most votes to win his / her seat that is a very simple majority. And then to form a Government it is the party with the most seats. Again a very simple majority over all other parties combined.

And whether you like it or not The Tories had a higher percentage of the general vote than any other party as well. So it was fair on all points.

We didn't see the Lefties complaining when we had a Labour Government elected under the same rules for 13 years. We only get the 'PR' argument when they lose. And Labour have lost twice now. And will lose in 2020 as well ...

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" So, my perspective is:-

God help America if Cruz or Sanders wins but God help the world if Trump wins "

Although Leo McKinstrey in the Express wrote an interesting article saying maybe the world needs a President like Trump. Not sure I agree.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney"

How so?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

How so?"

Because the thread was about the election. It isn't about whether the American election process is up to your standards, or how much better the British government or electoral system is. It was about practical details of the US election.

You are of course free to express your views however you want on a public forum. And that is fine. But I personally think the conversation has taken a less than informative turn.

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

How so?

Because the thread was about the election. It isn't about whether the American election process is up to your standards, or how much better the British government or electoral system is. It was about practical details of the US election.

You are of course free to express your views however you want on a public forum. And that is fine. But I personally think the conversation has taken a less than informative turn.

-Courtney"

Oh right apologies .... Well seeing as I know diddley about the US election I will leave you guys to it ....

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

How so?

Because the thread was about the election. It isn't about whether the American election process is up to your standards, or how much better the British government or electoral system is. It was about practical details of the US election.

You are of course free to express your views however you want on a public forum. And that is fine. But I personally think the conversation has taken a less than informative turn.

-Courtney

Oh right apologies .... Well seeing as I know diddley about the US election I will leave you guys to it ...."

That would be great. Thank you

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing

The only think going for Cruz (a religious fanatic) is the fact that he is not Trump.

i think most people would say that the other way round... the one thing going for trump is that he is not Ted Cruz.....

Not to be a defendant of Cruz but I beg to differ. Cruz is a religious man, bordering on fundamentalist. This, while worrying, is not something both the US and the world does not know how to handle and deal with. Trump is a dangerous, populist demagogue who wants 'to make America great again'. This sounds very Putinesque to me. I'm really not sure the world could survive that.

In difficult and uncertain times like now people tend to be attracted to the extremes of their own bias. This can lead to extremist candidates seeming to gain traction within their own parties. However, when the general public actually come to vote they tend to vote for the reasonable, sensible and pragmatic. In my estimation the only candidate out of the four front runners across the parties that comes anywhere near that is Hillary Clinton.

So, my perspective is:-

God help America if Cruz or Sanders wins but God help the world if Trump wins."
.

Trump is dangerous, sanders is dangerous... Vote middle ground..

The trouble with your opinion, Is that people are disillusioned with the middle ground because everything's fine shit under the middle ground for the last 40 fucking years!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Sanders is the only person telling the truth, that politics is corrupt and until you get the bribery out of politics you won't get real democracy.

Funnily enough if you look behind the bollocks that trump gives that the media repeats, you'll also notice he mentions the same, that big business is controlling the outcome!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

All the canidates are shit.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"Sanders is the only person telling the truth, that politics is corrupt and until you get the bribery out of politics you won't get real democracy.

Funnily enough if you look behind the bollocks that trump gives that the media repeats, you'll also notice he mentions the same, that big business is controlling the outcome!"

its the one thing they have in common on both sides of the spectrum... trump is self financing his campaign, and sanders has an army of small donors so neither is beholden to big backers

(p.s i did find it interesting that hillary has now started mentioning her army of small backers in her stump speech to try to blunt the sanders message and to give the impression that she is not backed by big donors which we know is not true)

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I have found this thread extremely entertaining and informative. It's very fascinating to me to hear the opinions of people outside of the US regarding our election process and candidates. And I dare say, sadly, that there are a number of posters here that know more about our system than alot of born and bred Americans!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


"All the canidates are shit."

Indeed.

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By *abio OP   Man
over a year ago

Newcastle and Gateshead


"

cruz may be the one unifer in this whole race in that almost everyone on both sides in politics in washington can not stand him..... the other side and his own side......

cruz's m.o is to basically vote against everything..... and i mean almost everthing

The only think going for Cruz (a religious fanatic) is the fact that he is not Trump.

i think most people would say that the other way round... the one thing going for trump is that he is not Ted Cruz.....

Not to be a defendant of Cruz but I beg to differ. Cruz is a religious man, bordering on fundamentalist. This, while worrying, is not something both the US and the world does not know how to handle and deal with. Trump is a dangerous, populist demagogue who wants 'to make America great again'. This sounds very Putinesque to me. I'm really not sure the world could survive that.

In difficult and uncertain times like now people tend to be attracted to the extremes of their own bias. This can lead to extremist candidates seeming to gain traction within their own parties. However, when the general public actually come to vote they tend to vote for the reasonable, sensible and pragmatic. In my estimation the only candidate out of the four front runners across the parties that comes anywhere near that is Hillary Clinton.

So, my perspective is:-

God help America if Cruz or Sanders wins but God help the world if Trump wins..

Trump is dangerous, sanders is dangerous... Vote middle ground..

The trouble with your opinion, Is that people are disillusioned with the middle ground because everything's fine shit under the middle ground for the last 40 fucking years!"

out of interest why is sanders dangerous?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

How so?

Because the thread was about the election. It isn't about whether the American election process is up to your standards, or how much better the British government or electoral system is. It was about practical details of the US election.

You are of course free to express your views however you want on a public forum. And that is fine. But I personally think the conversation has taken a less than informative turn.

-Courtney

Oh right apologies .... Well seeing as I know diddley about the US election I will leave you guys to it ....

That would be great. Thank you "

Forum police.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago


" This thread has gone from informative to ridiculous.

-Courtney

How so?

Because the thread was about the election. It isn't about whether the American election process is up to your standards, or how much better the British government or electoral system is. It was about practical details of the US election.

You are of course free to express your views however you want on a public forum. And that is fine. But I personally think the conversation has taken a less than informative turn.

-Courtney

Oh right apologies .... Well seeing as I know diddley about the US election I will leave you guys to it ....

That would be great. Thank you

Forum police. "

Indeed.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I'm really interested in what is going to happen next with Hillary. She has some new advisors now and I imagine they are worried. I think the primaries are going to turn out to be more interesting than the general election.

-Courtney

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Yeehaw.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

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