Jump into those caucus trenches (Maine)

[MaineDem]

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dottie Melanson is chairman of the Maine Democratic Party.


For the first time in 12 years, Maine Democrats are choosing their presidential candidate by returning to the caucus system.

With the presidential elections, it's a busy and exciting year. Mainers are calling Maine Democratic Party headquarters to find out what a caucus is, where it will be held in their town, and even if they can switch parties to vote on Feb. 8.

Unfortunately, the deadline has passed for voters to switch parties. But if you're among the 38 percent of independently registered voters in Maine, you can register as a Democrat the day of the caucuses.

On Sunday, people across the state will get into the nitty-gritty of presidential campaigns. People will go to their town office, school or community center and divide into groups based to who they support. Results, however, can change. You and your neighbors get a chance to persuade, cajole or otherwise influence each other to vote differently. You might go to your local caucus with the idea of supporting one candidate and come out having voted for another.

http://www.pressherald.com/viewpoints/mvoice/040204mevoice.shtml