February 27, 2008 6:42AM

A Texas Two-some

By Alexis Glick

Did you know that the Texas contest next Tuesday, March 4 is a hybrid primary-caucus? I did not know that! At least it is on the Democratic side. Most delegates are awarded on the primary vote and others by caucuses held later in the evening. The clincher…..voters can participate in both! Former President Bill Clinton traveling in Texas yesterday on Senator Hillary Clinton’s behalf told voters, “You have to vote twice if you really want her to be president.”

I was reading my research for this morning’s show and just discovered it. I immediately e-mailed my executive producer. Here’s how he said it works.

IT IS THE ONLY ONE.

Texas has a two step process that is open to all registered voters. When you cast your vote in the Texas primary, in essence it’s only 75% of a full vote. 126 of Texas’ 168 votes will be allocated to candidates based on the ballots cast.

15 minutes after the polls close (7:00 p.m.) those who voted must return to their precinct. This “precinct convention” is how Texas will decide how to divide the remaining 42 delegates. The rules were originally put in place to insure that the Democratic hierarchy would have more say.

Are you as surprised as I am? I would assume this is somewhat controversial. Weigh in! What do you think? Send me your thoughts! I’ll be discussing it with several writers and radio hosts this morning.