Anyone planning to run as a Convention Delegate?

[VolcanoJen]

Some of the states have their information up on their websites; for example, Ohio's delegate caucuses will be held on January 12, 2004.

It's a fun and wonderful way to support your candidate, and there is nothing in this world that is more exciting than being surrounded by fired-up Dems on the floor come Nomination Night. I encourage all interested to file their application and declaration of candidacy with their state Democratic Party!

:-)
Jennifer

[Brucey]

1. I would love to do it.

I was a State delegate for Mondale way back. Would like to go national!

[TSIAS]

2. I'll try

I'm already a Dean delegate for the State Convention this year. I'm looking into the National as well.

[in_cog_ni_to]

3. How do I become a delegate?

I just went to my states web site and there's no info on convention delegates. I'm fairly new to politics. What does it entail? I would LOVE to be at the convention as a delegate.

[VolcanoJen]

6. It depends upon your state.

In Ohio, National Delegates (district, not statewide) are chosen at a Congressional District Caucus, which for the '04 cycle will be held on January 12, 2004. There are a variety of selection methods, which vary by state. The information below applies only to Ohioans, so take it for what its worth. :-)

Before the caucus, you must file a "Declaration of Candidacy" form with the Ohio Dem Party (these forms become available around November). On the form, you pledge your support to the candidate of your choice.

Next, you attend the caucus. For Dukakis (Caucus for Dukakis!) in 1988, I think maybe thirty folks showed up in my district. Five of us were running for delegate, with four slots (two men, two women) available. The rest of the folks were registered voters who signed a pledge of support for that candidate, and who were there to vote for that candidate's delegates. In this case, we were allowed to make brief speeches. Then, by signed (not secret) ballot, the vote takes place. Following the outcome of the primary, the delegates are ranked, and thereby selected.

I'm oversimplifying this complicated process a bit, so the best way for you to understand how to be a delegate is to contact your State Democratic Party and ask for the scoop. I promise that in the end, they make it quite easy to apply and run!

:-) Good Luck, and let's send a TON of DUers to BeanTown in '04! :-)

[jiacinto]

4. How do you do it in Florida?

nt

[no name no slogan]

5. Maybe, maybe not

I was an alternate to two different MN state DFL conventions (1988 for Dukakis, 1990 for Wellstone for Senate/Perpich for Gov) and it can be a lot of fun. Wellstone's acceptance speech in 1990 was one of the most electrifying and empowering experiences I've ever had in my life!

Unfortunately, I'm not in college anymore and have other commitments (like a job, family, etc.). It would be a good time, though.

Here's some interesting stuff: back in 1988 when I was in college (Gustavus Adolphus, St Peter, MN), my precinct caucus sent TWO delegates to the Democratic National Convention! I believe it was one of the first times that two people from the same year at the same college went to the National convention, or some such obscure stat. I think they may have even been interviewed by one of the major networks because it was such an odd occurence.

So, yeah, definately go to your caucuses-- you'll never know where it will lead...! :D