If you’ve ever wanted to get to the core of Colorado politics, attend a caucus on Tuesday. You might be able to gauge the strength of Andrew Romanoff, who is trying to unseat fellow Democrat and U.S. Senator Michael Bennet. Or you might cement or change your views on Jane Norton, who is seeking the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate. As the Loveland Reporter-Herald points out, the caucuses are a time when Colorado goes grassroots—when neighbors gather to explore the candidates and the issues. The process, which is open only to registered Democrats and Republicans for participation, is the candidates’ first step in winning his or her party’s nomination, which garners the top spot on the primary voting ballot, as both the Fort Collins Coloradoan and The Pueblo Chieftain explain. Most caucuses will take place in large public buildings, but at least one will be held in a living room, reports The Denver Post. The caucuses have their critics, such as those who believe the system is outmoded. But John Wren of Denver, who holds meetings and seminars on the process, is a dedicated supporter. “It neutralizes the effects of big money and big power in politics,” he says. “The system has served Colorado well since it was created in 1912 as part of the Teddy Roosevelt progressive reforms.”