Nevada does not have a Presidential Primary Election. Instead, Nevada is a caucus-to-convention state and so the caucus is the first step in Nevada’s presidential nominating process. It is also, at a basic level, a simple gathering of neighbors who meet to discuss grassroots politics.

This year, for the 2012 caucus, the process will be similar to the 2008 caucus, except this time we will unite together to demonstrate our unwavering support for — and to elect delegates for — President Barack Obama.

On January 21st, 2012, at 11:30am, Democrats across the state of Nevada will meet in neighborhood caucus locations at schools, community centers, churches and other public sites. These meetings will begin by electing delegates for President Barack Obama who will proceed to the next step in the nominating process — the county conventions. Each neighborhood precinct is allocated a pre-determined number of delegates according to a formula described in state law. Any caucus participant may stand for election as a delegate.

After delegates have been elected, the results of the caucus are reported to the Nevada State Democratic Party, and the caucus approves the slate of delegates. The caucus meeting will then discuss grassroots politics and put forth resolutions to be considered for the party platform, and nominate members to the county central committee. When this business is concluded, the caucus will adjourn.

Anyone who wants to be elected as a delegate to the national convention — the final stage in the caucus to convention process — must participate at the precinct caucus level, and each subsequent level: county convention on April 14th, 2012, and the state convention on June 9th and 10th, 2012.

Caucus – January 21st, 2012
County Convention – April 14th, 2012
State Convention – June 9th and 10th, 2012

• Any Democrat registered to vote in the precinct
• 17-year-olds who will be 18 by Election Day (November 6, 2012) and are registered to vote
• Participants may register to vote on the day of the caucus
• Republicans, non-partisans and others may change their registration on Caucus Day

Not at all. Precinct caucuses will be held in schools, community centers, churches, and other locations throughout Nevada.

It won’t cost you anything to attend, but according to the caucus rules you must be present to participate.