What is a Superdelegate? Their role at the DNC’s convention in August

Superdelegates play a pivotal role in the Democratic National Convention (DNC), particularly in scenarios where the party faces uncertainty regarding its nominee.

Superdelegates are party officials, including members of Congress, governors, and other prominent party figures, who are not bound by primary results. Unlike pledged delegates, who must support the candidate that won their state’s primary or caucus, superdelegates can vote for any candidate they choose. This system was established to ensure that party leaders have a say in the nomination process, particularly in contested situations.

Role of Superdelegates at the DNC’s Convention

At the DNC convention, superdelegates hold significant sway, especially if no candidate secures a majority of pledged delegates.

In the event of Biden’s withdrawal, superdelegates could become crucial in determining the party’s nominee. The DNC has 739 superdelegates, who can influence the outcome of the nomination process by aligning with candidates they support.

They cannot vote in a first ballot, thanks to a rule change in 2018.

The role they could play if Biden drops out

In a scenario where Biden drops out, candidates like Vice President Kamala Harris, California Governor Gavin Newsom, and others may vie for the nomination. Superdelegates could play a decisive role in rallying support for a particular candidate.

While already mentioned how they can’t vote initially, the amount of delegates could potentially swing any further ballots to any one candidate. It could give the Democrat Party grandees significant power over the selection of Biden’s successor.

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