短语讲解：

1. A third candidate, former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, dropped out of the race Monday night after a poor showing in Iowa.

drop out of 不参与，退出
例句：I saw something drop out of his pocket
我看见有什么东西从他口袋里掉出来。

2. Two other Democratic presidential votes take place later this month in Nevada and South Carolina.

take place 发生，举行
例句：Earthquakes take place far underground.
地震则发生在地球的极深处。