Why Does Iowa Vote First? The state's February 3rd caucus is the br first major contest of the 2020br U.S. presidential primary season. Based off its demographics, br some critics claim another br state should have it. In a 'Slate' discussion, journalist John Dickerson br says Iowa being first is simply political tradition. John Dickerson, via 'Slate' Back in 1972, Iowa br decided to start holding br its Democratic caucus first. Four years later, it did the br same for Republicans. Dickerson adds that candidates in the past have gotten the nomination while ignoring Iowa. He also explains that voters can simply br not put too much stock in the state being first.