For years, the Colorado Caucus process has been under attack. 2020 is no exception. For those unfamiliar with the Colorado Caucus process, here is a brief overview:
· The Caucus process brings the neighbors of your precinct together to discuss the issues and candidates important to them.
· Candidates for County, State, and Federal Offices may choose to use the Caucus process for access to the primary ballot.
· Each precinct elect delegates to higher assemblies and Precinct Committee People, as well as vote on resolutions to submit to the County and State party.
· Delegates move to the next level to vote on behalf of their precinct and vote for the candidates they choose.
· Candidates campaign to the delegates in hopes of earning their vote.
· Candidates going solely through the Caucus process require 30% of the vote to have their name make the primary ballot.
· Candidates who choose to use a petition and Caucus must acquire their required signatures, submit to the Clerk & Recorder/Secretary of State and earn at least 10% of the delegate votes at assembly.
· Candidates who fail to receive their required delegate votes are eliminated from having their name appear on the primary ballot.
It is clear that the many steps required to make the primary ballot may be overwhelming; however, this is why Caucus is so important to our Republic.
Before the American Revolution, many of our Founding Fathers would gather to “caucus” around local issues. These topics could range anywhere from appointing a new Fire Chief to establishing the plans of the Revolution. Caucuses provided a safe place for discussion and deliberation before making a final decision.
Caucus in Colorado is the most important staple in upholding our Republic. Republics are based around a common interest in keeping government small and activating the grassroots. Caucuses do just that. When neighbors come together to discuss what is most important to them, the exchange of ideas brings new levels of understanding and ignite passion.
Additionally, candidates must actually work to get on the ballot. Candidates who choose to petition onto the primary ballot, whether solely or using the caucus process simultaneously, often pay “signature gatherers” to attain their required signatures or have volunteers. This method requires very little involvement or commitment from the candidates, other than with their donors.
So, why would a candidate choose to go solely through the Caucus process when it is the far more tenuous route?
- Well, the answer is quite simple, really. They believe in our Republic. They understand that they must work for your vote. They dedicate their time and energy to activating the grassroots. They build the support and volunteer base for the party, come November.
Now, I am not saying that candidates who choose to petition on are cowardice or lazy, I am simply stating that the benefits to the candidate, the party, and our Republic of the Caucus process/candidates significantly outweighs the ease of petitioning on.
I would encourage you to research more about the Caucus process in Colorado and if you have questions, reach out to your County Party, as each County may do things a bit different.
We must stand for our Caucus candidates and thank them for holding true to our roots and honoring the Caucus process. #CaucusOrBust
His,
Conservative Cody
Proud #Buster