ABOUT THE POLL

The Ames Straw Poll, held at Iowa State University, is conducted only by Republicans and tests a candidate's organizational strength. But it isn't necessarily an indicator of who will win the nomination. It is perhaps the only contest where voters pay a "poll tax" -- $30 to cast a ballot. It also serves as a fundraiser for the Iowa Republican Party; candidates pay thousands to pitch a tent. Candidates also spend hundreds of thousands of dollars on entertainment, transportation and food (former Gov. Tim Pawlenty will serve Minnesota-based Famous Dave's while Rep. Michelle Bachmann will have meat sundaes: mashed potatoes and gravy with a cherry tomato on top).