What happens at a precinct caucus?
Unlike primaries and most other elections in Colorado, caucuses are not put on by the Secretary of State’s office and counties. Instead, the two major political parties run the caucuses, meaning Colorado’s Democratic and Republican party leaders take on the bulk of the organization and administrative efforts. The purpose of the precinct caucuses is not to elect candidates directly or even to decide the ballot. Instead, it’s one of the first steps in those processes and where the parties formulate platforms moving forward.
At the precinct caucus, party members come together to elect precinct committee members (also known as organizers), who will go to the county, district, and state assemblies (more on that later) and help decide which candidates make the ballot for various local and state-wide races. Between Democrats and Republicans, there are a combined 3,133 precinct caucuses in Colorado at various locations, and two precinct organizers will be elected at each one—meaning a total of 6,266 organizers will emerge from the precinct caucus. Still with us? Let’s continue.
The precinct organizers are elected based on the candidates or party principles that they support. It’s a relatively easy process: If you want to be an organizer, go to the caucus, raise your hand and say as much, then make your case.
Where does it happen?
The caucuses are held at various locations around the state, including public buildings and private residences (so long as they are accessible to all people). First, you need to determine your precinct number—which you can do here. Then go to your party’s website to learn where you should be caucusing.
Who can caucus in Colorado?
Only registered party members who have been a member of their precinct for at least 22 days can caucus in Colorado, which means unaffiliated voters and newcomers are out. However, unaffiliated voters will have the opportunity to vote in the June 25th primary, which formally nominates statewide and local candidates. Caucus-goers must be at least 18 years old, or they must turn 18 before the general election (November 5th, 2024) in order to participate.