Her campaign signaled this week that Bachmann intends to dial back her efforts in the first-in-the-nation primary state of New Hampshire, putting even greater pressure on the candidate to perform well in the leadoff caucus state.

CNN: Bachmann faces complications in Iowa

While Sharpton was a colorful and eloquent figure on the campaign trail -- often standing out at party debates -- he failed to win a state primary or caucus.

CNN: Sharpton endorses Kerry

While senators are in Washington, their days are scheduled in fifteen-minute intervals: staff meetings, interviews, visits from lobbyists and home-state groups, caucus lunches, committee hearings, briefing books, floor votes, fund-raisers.

NEWYORKER: The Empty Chamber