Over the weekend, I took part in the first Nebraska Democratic Caucus in over 40 years. I have to say, despite a lack of funding from the Nebraska Democratic Party and the ill-preparedness of the caucus sites, it was a very unique experience.

Early estimates put the turn out at my site as only 17 people, however that was far surpassed. Our site had at least 500 people in the large auditorium, and at least five “over-flow” rooms with about 100 people in each. The site leader in each room designated a wall by which each candidate’s supporters were to stand and reserved the center for the undecided vote. Each side elected a representative to talk for about 90 second and try to convince people to switch sides. After the speeches, they held the first realignment, which was a seven minute time period in which people could switch sides, but only the leaders were allowed to talk to the other side. Next, the speeches by actual member of the candidates’ party. They were allowed 90 seconds to add on to what had already been said. Finally, the second alignment brought the event to a close. It was exactly the same as the first.

When all was said and done, our room voted 71-38 for Obama. It was a similar count at all precincts. It may have been more, but in one county they underestimated and had to start turning people away.

Regardless, 69% of Democrats in Nebraska said they wanted to see Barack as the candidate.

Filed under: Activism, Alex Habrock, Barack Obama, Democrats, Election 2008, Featured Stories, Hillary Clinton, Politics