I know it's unlikely, but can you imagine

[cali]

how odd it would be if the current 3-way tie in Iowa is translated into caucus results, and Edwards, Clinton and Obama go into NH on equal footing?

[LeftCoast]

1. I think it speaks to the fact that our candidates are all pretty competent

The question on the Democratic side is 'which of these choices is best?'

The question on the other side is 'which is the least bad option?'

Despite the cries of doom and gloom around here, I think our chances are better this election than they've been in my entire lifetime.

[JI7]

2. why do you think it's unlikely ?

unless you mean it's unlikely the actual results will be a 3 way tie.

but coudln't the actual results end up with the top 3 close with the first place candidate being very close to the 3rd place ?

[cali]

3. I think historically, there's usually a clear winner in Iowa

I could be wrong, but I believe it would be highly unusual if the top three came out of Iowa within 4 or 4 points of each other.