The 2012 Primary/Caucus Nomination System

[Kaine for Senate '18]

First Tuesday in January (excluding January 1): Iowa Caucus
Second Tuesday in February: New Hampshire Primary
Second Tuesday in May:  Every other state holds a primary

[Kaine for Senate '18]

First Tuesday in January (excluding January 1): Iowa Caucus
Second Tuesday in February: New Hampshire Primary
Second Tuesday in May:  Every other state holds a primary

That's a long wait.

And why Tuesday?

I just picked the day when most primaries are held.  Plus, I could never deny the media the right to have a "Super Tuesday."

[Kaine for Senate '18]

First Tuesday in January (excluding January 1): Iowa Caucus
Second Tuesday in February: New Hampshire Primary
Second Tuesday in May:  Every other state holds a primary

That's a long wait.

And why Tuesday?

I just picked the day when most primaries are held.  Plus, I could never deny the media the right to have a "Super Tuesday."

Tuesday elections are an anachronism, from the days when polling stations were a day's ride away and there were proscriptions against travelling on the Sabbath.

I don't see why that matters.  Also, every state gives the day off to its employees, similar to the Presidential election day, so that they can vote.