What happens to a candidates delegates if they drop out of the race?

[NNN0LHI]

Do they still keep them or does another candidate pick them up? Thanks in advance if anyone knows.

Don

[Rhiannon12866]

1. My friend who was a delegate in New Hampshire

for Gephardt no longer gets to go to the convention. I know that much. And that she is very disappointed, especially since she came to like and admire the man.:-(

[dsc]

2. They are free agents

though they usually do what their candidate says.

[MaineDem]

3. It may depend on the state

Here in Maine they become "uncommitted" or, with written permission, may declare for another candidate.

I'm not sure if it's the same in each state.

[King of New Orleans]

4. Traditionally

they vote for the candidate they are committed to on the first ballot. After that they are released to vote as they wish. Since most conventions are brokered that merely means that on the "unity" ballot they then vote for the party's nominee, although there are always a few that don't. If no candidate has the delegates to win on a first ballot, then the wackiness ensues.