It was a razor thin line between the U.S. Democratic presidential contenders in the Iowa pre-election caucus. Among Republicans, there was a defeat for front-runner Donald Trump.

There were some surprising results, and some not-so-surprising, from the U.S. state of Iowa.

CCTV America’s Nathan King reports from Des Moines, Iowa.

Elections are meant to produce winners, but on the Democratic side it was a virtual dead heat. Hillary Clinton won by just two-tenths of a percent, which was just enough to avoid embarrassment for the former First Lady and U.S. Secretary of State.

The turnout set a record for the chaotic caucus process, many first-time voters lined up for hours.

Edward Ashbee on how the Iowa caucus shapes the US presidential race

CCTV America’s Mike Walter spoke with Edward Ashbee, associate professor at the Department of Business and Politics at the Copenhagen Business School in Denmark. Ashbee is also the author of the book, “The Right and the Recession.”

On the Republican side of the race was multi-billionaire Donald Trump who was the loser in Iowa, coming second to conservative Ted Cruz who toured every corner of the state to rustle up votes.

Both claim to be political outsiders, but so-called mainstream Republican Marco Rubio had a surprisingly strong finish. His youth and positive message was a contrast to the anger and rejection of establishment politics, which has been a big factor in the race so far.

‘Also-rans’ included Jeb Bush whose father and brother were President-chances look slim that he’ll be following in their footsteps.