1. 18.3 Choosing Candidates

2. Nominating Candidates
This is the most important role of political parties
Step 1 when running for office
Declare you are a candidate for the office
3 ways to be nominated
self-nomination
Write in candidate – ask people write your name on the ballot
Chosen by delegates at conventions – local, state, and national

3. Nominating Candidates
Caucus
Some states select candidates and/or delegates to the conventions at a caucus
Local or state party leaders meet to discuss issues and choose the candidates
This used to be secret meetings, but now they are open meetings

4. Nominating Candidates
Primaries
Most state and federal offices are now chosen in direct primaries
The winning candidate in this election is now the candidate of the party for that particular office
2 types of direct primary
Closed - only registered members of the party choose the candidates
Open – voters do not need to declare a party before voting, but can only vote in one parties primary

6. Choosing Presidential Candidates
Who can run?
Over 35 years old
These are the only requirements in the Constitution
Born in the U.S.
Be well known
Experience in government
be able to raise money
Realistically

7. Choosing Presidential Candidates
Paying for the primary campaign
Candidates raise most of their own money
Individuals are limited as to how much they can contribute - $2,000
Federal government will match the donations
Why should (or shouldn’t) our tax dollars be spent on this?

8. Choosing Presidential Candidates
Choosing Delegates
In the primaries voters either vote for the candidate herself or a delegate who supports that candidate
In caucus through discussion and voting by raising of hands
The whole process starts in Jan. of election year
Although the candidates start visiting the early states of IA (caucus) and NH (primary)even earlier and FL oops!

9. Choosing Presidential Candidates
National Conventions
Held during presidential election years
Vote on nominations
Usually this is already decided
Decide on the party platform
Listen to speeches
This begins the campaign season