What is an open convention? – Simplified
President Biden’s decision to forego running for reelection in 2024 has brought a whirlwind of changes to the political landscape. It follows a period where over three dozen elected Democrats urged him to step aside due to concerns about his ability to serve a second term.
In a significant move, Mr. Biden has extended his support to Vice President Kamala Harris, positioning her as the Democratic frontrunner for the upcoming presidential elections. Harris, in a statement, expressed her determination to earn the party’s nomination through merit.
These developments come just before the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, set to begin on August 19. Amidst preparations for a virtual roll call vote to nominate a candidate to challenge former President Trump in November, there is anticipation that this decision might be finalized by August 1.
Should the virtual vote proceed as planned, Democrats would already have a presidential nominee by the start of the convention. However, if circumstances lead to an open convention – where no set nominee exists at the beginning – candidates must vie for support from delegates who will select the nominee during the event.
To secure the Democratic nomination, a candidate must win 1,968 delegates in the initial voting round. These delegates are divided into two categories: pledged delegates, who are bound to support the candidate voted by their state’s constituents, and superdelegates, party officials without a predetermined allegiance who are restricted from voting in the first ballot.
While Mr. Biden amassed nearly 3,900 pledged delegates, their support is now up for grabs, not automatically transferring to Harris. However, DNC executive Alan Clendenin anticipates a significant majority of delegates will rally around Harris in the days to come.
DNC chair Jaime Harrison affirmed plans to engage in a transparent process to unify the party behind a candidate capable of defeating Trump in November. The road ahead for Harris is still uncertain, as she may face challengers for the Democratic nomination despite receiving endorsements from prominent party leaders like Governors Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro.
Historically, nomination battles at conventions can be arduous, as exemplified by the 1924 Democratic National Convention, which endured a grueling 103-ballot process before selecting its presidential and vice-presidential candidates, who ultimately faced defeat in the general election.
The unfolding narrative of the Democratic presidential race promises an intriguing journey ahead, with Harris emerging as a central figure in the party’s quest for unity and victory in November. Amidst these political stirrings, the nation awaits the revelation of the Democratic nominee and the ensuing electoral showdown.
