What is one major drawback of the caucus method?

One major drawback of the caucus method is that it requires physical presence. This attendance requirement can significantly limit participation, as individuals who cannot attend in person—due to factors such as scheduling conflicts, health issues, or distance—are excluded from the decision-making process. Unlike primary elections, which often allow for absentee ballots and early voting, caucuses typically necessitate that voters gather at specific locations and times, which can reduce the overall pool of participants and may not reflect the preferences of the broader electorate. This limitation can lead to outcomes that do not accurately represent the wider community, undermining the democratic principle of inclusivity in the electoral process.

In contrast, the other options highlight factors that do not inherently contribute to a significant drawback for the caucus system. For example, secret ballots are not a feature of caucuses, which often involve public voting; an event stretching over multiple days can allow for more participation rather than detracting from it; and requiring a physical presence does not guarantee wide participation, which is a common concern for caucus systems.