Guam matters in the Democratic nomination

 By: Mark Rubeo

   Even if they can not vote in the general election, residents of Guam will on May 3 play a small roll in selecting the Democratic nominee. The island’s Democratic caucus has 8 delegates up for grabs, each of which will receive half a vote at the Democratic National Convention.
   For the first time in the island’s history, candidates are actively campaigning there (though both are more focused on Indiana and North Carolina). Former President Bill Clinton called a Guam radio show on March 17 to speak for his wife, Senator Hillary Clinton, while Senator Barack Obama has set up a campaign office in the territory’s capital.
   “It’s kind of cool that Guam matters this time,” said Erik Morris, 10.
   Because Guam is a territory (not a state), its caucus has different rules. Residents do not need to be registered voters to participate in the caucus, and people can register for the Democratic Party on-site (all but eliminating party affiliation concerns). Times are also a lot less set-in-stone; one precinct will vote earlier than the others because of conflicts with a local festival.
   “It’s weird that they can’t vote in the real election but they can in the nominations,” said Morris.
   Bill Clinton suggested on the radio show that he, Chelsea Clinton, or Hillary herself may be coming to Guam before the primary.
   “I don’t think he was being serious,” said Max Schwartz, 10. “It’s too long a flight.”