Winter Garden Magazine February 2016 - Justin & Holli Trisler | Page 9

Political Spotlight Upcoming Presidential Elections At press time for our February issue the Canidates were focusing on the Iowa Caucuses. Often called the Tide Turner, each of the Parties put on a full court press to win over the Caucus attendees. It all starts or ends with Iowa. Those still in the running for the Republican Party were Businessman Donald Trump leading with 29% of the vote, while Texas Senator Ted Cruz had 25%, both keeping their eyes on the prize. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio had 17% for third place with retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson at 9%. The Democratic Party was not as crowded. Former First Lady and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton led with 45% — a difference of just 2 percentage points within the poll’s 3.2 percentage point margin of error — over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders. That result is different from the Des Moines Register poll released Saturday, which featured a three-point difference, but with Clinton in the lead, 45% to 42%. The level of anxiety and anticipation was palpable among the true believers on both Parties. Everyone had their own spin, their own story, and projected outcome for Caucuses. This promises to be a learning experience for Party prognosticators as the first-time caucus goer numbers are expected to be high. It is expected that first time attendees will be a boost for Bernie Sanders and extend the lead for Donald Trump. Not giving in to speculation seems to be the most prudent of actions. Wait to see what the Polls will yield and do not sit back and relax. Take part in the political process. Talk about your candidates with others. Keep an open mind. Learn. Listen. Decide. Whatever your Party affiliation is, GET OUT AND VOTE! Not only is this the only way to ensure your voice is heard, but it should be instilled in every American as not only a Right, but a grave Responsibility! FEBRUARY 2016  |  WINTER GARDEN MAGAZINE   |  9