The Iowa Caucus is a political event held in Iowa, where members of the Democratic and Republican parties gather to select their preferred candidates for the upcoming presidential election. Unlike a primary election, the caucus involves discussions and public voting, allowing participants to express their support for candidates in a more interactive setting. The Iowa Caucus is significant because it is the first major electoral event in the presidential nomination process. Its results can influence the momentum of candidates, often shaping the race as they head into subsequent primaries and caucuses across the country.