[samtheman]

I hardly think the nomination of anyone is going to hinge on this straw poll. Iowans think way way too highly of themselves. I’m not saying the caucuses are unimportant... but this straw poll... essentially meaningless.

[FreedomForce]

I pretty much agree with that. All this does is allow some candidates whose campaigns are already terminally ill to stick around a little longer.

[RecoveringPaulisto]

I don’t know. It made Huckabee a contender in ‘08. Ames will narrow down the field this time. If Pawlenty doesn’t perform well, he’s out. If Bachmann doesn’t crush, her momentum will be slowed. If Paul doesn’t do well, it will crush his supporters. If Palin or Perry show up well in the straw poll (15%+) without being in the race, then there will be more calls for both to enter the race.

[OrangeHoof]

but this straw poll... essentially meaningless.

Aren't straw polls, by definition, meaningless?

[Minus_The_Bear]

A candidate can't win the nomination at the straw poll... but they can lose it by placing poorly.

A poor showing and support and money can dry up real fast.

It gives the winner a large media and fundraising boost.