President Joe Biden has made the decision not to run for reelection and has given his endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris. However, it is still unclear if Harris will automatically become the nominee or if there will be a different selection process.
Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:
Will Harris automatically become the nominee?
No, Harris will not automatically become the nominee. Even though Biden has endorsed her, there is no set protocol for the presidential ticket. Harris will have to win a majority of the convention, just like any other candidate.
What is the “virtual roll call”?
The Democrats are currently working on setting up a system for conducting the presidential nomination vote remotely before the party’s convention next month. Under the proposed plan, delegates will receive a 24-hour notice before voting begins, and voting will take place through digital ballots sent via email. However, the plan has not been approved yet, and it’s uncertain whether the party will stick with this option or opt for a traditional vote on the convention floor.
How can other candidates join the race?
According to party rules, candidates must meet specific requirements to have their names nominated as the party’s presidential candidate. They need to gather signatures from delegates (at least 300, but no more than 600) from multiple states. Additionally, candidates must fulfill certain criteria outlined in party rules, such as being a “bona fide Democrat” and having substantial support for their nomination. The Democratic National Committee (DNC) chair will determine the eligibility of candidates, although more details on this process have not yet been released.
Understanding Delegates
There are two types of delegates in the Democratic Party. The first type is pledged delegates, of which there are 3,949. These delegates were selected through various state-level processes, and around 99% of them were pledged to vote for Biden based on his primary and caucus performance. These delegates were approved by Biden’s campaign.
The second type is automatic delegates, also known as “superdelegates.” There are approximately 750 automatic delegates, and they serve as delegates due to another position they hold or held. They have the freedom to vote for the candidate of their choice. However, under normal circumstances, they cannot vote in the first ballot if their votes could impact the nomination results. It is unclear if they will be able to participate in the first ballot in this case.
Are Democratic delegates required to vote for the candidate who won them?
No, Democratic party rules state that pledged delegates should reflect the sentiments of those who elected them in good conscience. However, the candidates’ right of review allows delegates to be loyal to their pledged candidate. With Biden no longer in the race, his delegates are free to vote for any candidate they choose without needing formal release from him.
Biden withdraws: President Joe Biden has ended his reelection bid and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to succeed him. Biden said he will finish his term and will address the nation this week.
