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.