ABSTRACT
In this and the next two chapters, I shall examine the three major phases of the greatest spectacle in American politics-the quest for the presidency. Campaigns for the presidency may commence a year-or even several yearsbefore the first state caucuses and primaries in a presidential election year as the early entrants lay the groundwork for their campaigns by putting together staffs and sounding out local political leaders and potential contributors.∗ The campaigns of most presidential candidates do not attract wide news coverage, however, until the first caucuses and primaries, which now begin in January (Iowa caucus) and February (NewHampshire primary) of an election year. Then ensues a whirlwind of activity for the next nine months or so that culminates on Election Day in November.
