Definition
National conventions bring together delegates from states and territories to nominate a presidential ticket, adopt a platform, approve rules, and promote party unity.
Political Dictionary
National Convention
A national convention is a major party gathering that formally nominates presidential and vice-presidential candidates.
Why It Matters
They mark the transition from the nomination contest to the general-election campaign.
How It Works
Delegates vote on nominations and party business, while speeches and events present the ticket to voters.
History
National conventions replaced congressional caucuses as the main presidential nominating method in the nineteenth century. Modern primaries usually determine the nominee before the convention.
Example
A candidate with a pledged-delegate majority is formally nominated at the convention.
Common Misconceptions
- The convention always decides the nominee in a contested vote.
- Delegates are Electoral College members.
- The convention is operated by the federal government.
Related Terms
Related Topics
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