Front-Loading the Primaries

To give the western states a louder voice, the Democrats will hold nominating caucuses in Nevada in January, before the New Hampshire primary. Meantime, Republican Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger wants next year's primary on February 5, to give California a voice in selecting presidential nominees. Increased political clout may motivate Democrats and Republicans in the state legislature to go along. Elected officials may hope that voters asked to change the primary date, will also respond favorably to extending term limits of Senators and Assembly members. There's also the argument that an early California primary means discussion of California issues. (An extended version of this discussion was originally broadcast earlier today on To the Point.)