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New Iowa caucus rules could spark clashing claims of victory

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January 16th, 2020 by Ric Hanson

DES MOINES, Iowa (AP) – New rules in this year’s Iowa caucuses could give presidential candidates an unprecedented opportunity to spin the results. In previous years, the Iowa Democratic Party reported just one number: the number of state delegates won by each candidate. For the first time, the party will this year report two other numbers — who had the most votes at the beginning and at the end of the night. Party officials say the new process will enhance transparency. But there is a growing sense it could also breed confusion by giving several candidates the chance to say they won the caucuses.