If you grew up reading MAD magazine you'll remember the zany Spy v. Spy. The operative idea being that two sides of the same game constantly seek advantage over the other while the whole time just destroying one another. Republicans and Democrats are splintered. Whatever teary eyed impression one takes from the Iowa game, it is in fact that the two major parties in the US are divided.
While a virtual three way tie has made Obama the top lawyer in the Donkey barn, the evangelic enigma that is Mike Huckabee has only stirred an already muddy river. Thompson, McCain and Paul came into a virtual tie for third. All three stand a decent chance to do something in New Hampshire, while Huckabee and Rudy will have to play on the sidelines. Romney strikes at 20%+ throughout most of the process. The most disheartening part is the lovefest the MSM has with the horse race.
Standing atop the year long babbling streams are two figures that strike and utilize the salubrious calm of folksy language and verve. Populism lurks greater than any promise of change. Three hundred thousand people from a state of 2.3 million get to sidle up to the counter and place their order for a root beer float, might as well add a cherry. Saddle up GOP, more people are circling wagons over thar. 
I'm still trying to figure out if the Iowa delegates represent a winner take all setup. From what little I gather, it looks like these people are elected to county conventions. One assumes that they would stay loyal to candidates, but swift, efficient power needs often create significant expediency. In other words, they can be 'flipped'. What is the viability of third parties in Iowa ? Why do independents have to mire through this stilted process ? I suspect that any coalescing of Greens or Libertarians is very strained out there. I profess only being there once.
It's all swell and great that the punditocracy has fresh red meat now. I suspect that this preacher from the Midwest will disappear like Maud'dib in Dune's sands. This will be the Free State's first test and will only bolster it's numbers when they realize what they can do in 2010 and 2012 as the crusty tears fade and turn to spirited anger. The third party people feel this every time Paulites, it's OK, get up and keep fighting.
Of course for the most spirited and rigorous process, just follow the LP nomination as it unfolds. Great entertainment and guaranteed to make all the natives stomp and dance.
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