6 things to keep an eye on in Iowa -- the Democrats

1. Second choice could mean first place

Don't just watch which candidate Iowa Democratic caucus-goers love, but also the ones they can live with. If a candidate does not receive "viability" (15-25 percent of the vote, depending on the precinct), supporters of those failing candidates have the option of joining with another campaign. In 2004, supporters of Dennis Kucinich aligned with John Edwards in caucuses where Kucinich did not have viability, helping Edwards to his second place finish. However, this year Kucinich has urged supporters to back Barack Obama should he not reach "viability." For 2008, the candidate who gets the most "second choice" votes may ultimately take home the prize.
(AP Photo)
1. Second choice could mean first place Don't just watch which candidate Iowa Democratic caucus-goers love, but also the ones they can live with. If a candidate does not receive 'viability' (15-25 percent of the vote, depending on the precinct), supporters of those failing candidates have the option of joining with another campaign. In 2004, supporters of Dennis Kucinich aligned with John Edwards in caucuses where Kucinich did not have viability, helping Edwards to his second place finish. However, this year Kucinich has urged supporters to back Barack Obama should he not reach 'viability.' For 2008, the candidate who gets the most 'second choice' votes may ultimately take home the prize. PHOTOS 6 things to keep an eye on -- the Republicans DISCUSS What do you see as the key factors?
Text by James Pindell and Jason Tuohey