The Presidency

PRESIDENTIAL NOMINATIONS Section 4

National Conventions As democracy has expanded, the nomination process has become more democratic. The convention process has been created entirely by political parties The political parties set the number of delegates each state will get. – Each state’s electoral votes – Bonus delegates (superdelegates)

Presidential Primaries One of or both of two things: – Delegate-Selection process – Candidate preference election Process differs state to state because of: – The fact that delegate-selection is set by state law – The ongoing reform efforts of the Democrats Each state sets the date for their primaries – Most candidates must have money and recognition to be successful because of the hectic schedule. Most primaries award delegates on a proportional basis. – Democrats require it – The way delegates are selected varies greatly from state to state.

Primary Appraisal Primaries democratized the presidential selection process Put potential candidates to “the test” – Screen out weaker candidates Large demands placed on candidates: time, effort, money, scheduling, & fatigue Some propose reforms: – Single, Nation-wide primary, or regional primaries

The Caucuses States without primary ballot elections hold caucuses Caucus process – Voters meet at the precinct level to express a preference for presidential nominee and select delegates for local or district conventions. – Delegates at district convention select delegates to state convention. – Delegates at state convention choose delegates to national convention.

Securing the Nomination The National Convention – Naming the party’s presidential and vice presidential candidates. – Bringing the various party factions together – Adopting the party platform.

Who is Nominated? Several factors contribute to a party choosing its candidates for the presidency – Candidate must be able to win – Political experience: Usually have long records of serving in political positions Many from positions as Governors or Senators – Other Characteristics WASPS (White, Anglo-Saxon, Protestants), Men, Wealthy, Relatively Attractive, Happily Married, Eloquent Speakers, from Large States.