For the first time I participated in a caucus today. Washington ran things a little different than other states. Each party, divided by precinct, got together and affiliated themselves in one of three camps: Obama, Clinton, or undecided. The ratio of votes determined how our designated delegates would represent our area. My precinct, 43-2549, had 75 voters and nine delegates assigned. Despite being known for our docility and friendliness, claws came out during debates to sway the undecided voters. After tallying our votes, our precinct’s vote assigned six delegates to Obama and three for Clinton. Next up is our district caucus in April, in which I will be attending as one of the Obama delegates.

 Call me an idealist, but this is what democracy should be all about. People getting together, debating and educating ourselves, and becoming involved in our future. I’m proud of the record turnouts in our caucuses and excited to know and appreciate my neighbors.