In January, I took a little side-trip to Iowa to volunteer for Howard Dean. It turned into a historic firsthand view into a campaign coming apart at the seams. In the process, I made some new friends, witnessed some drama, knocked on over 1,000 doors, and had great conversations with Iowans, Republican, Independent, and Democrat.

The Dean Machine in Sioux City, IA. Dean in Sioux City, Iowa, courthouse. My partners and I knocked on more than 1,000 doors there. Not that the rally wasn't exciting, but the courthouse in Sioux City had a beautiful ceiling. More Angry Dean. Yes, it was just as bad if you were in the room.

Iowa Senator Tom Harkin whooping up the crowd. Despite the reputation for anger mismanagement that he solidified in Des Moines the next day, Dean was very calm at this rally. Dean in a career-limiting moment in Des Moines. Campaign manager, Joe Trippi, talking to campaign volunteers. He looked worried.