Why Does Iowa Vote First? The state's February 3rd caucus is the <br />first major contest of the 2020<br />U.S. presidential primary season. Based off its demographics, <br />some critics claim another <br />state should have it. In a 'Slate' discussion, journalist John Dickerson <br />says Iowa being first is simply political tradition. John Dickerson, via 'Slate' Back in 1972, Iowa <br />decided to start holding <br />its Democratic caucus first. Four years later, it did the <br />same for Republicans. Dickerson adds that candidates in the past have gotten the nomination while ignoring Iowa. He also explains that voters can simply <br />not put too much stock in the state being first. John Dickerson, via 'Slate'
