Democratic National Convention

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Quadrennial presidential nominating convention of the Democratic Party

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Genre	Political convention
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Frequency	Quadrennial
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Location(s)	Various
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The Democratic National Convention (DNC) is a series of presidential nominating conventions held every four years since 1832 by the Democratic Party. The primary purpose of the convention is to select the party's nominee for President and to adopt a comprehensive party platform and rules for the party's activities, including the presidential nominating process for the next election cycle.

History

The first Democratic National Convention was held in 1832 in Baltimore, Maryland, to nominate Andrew Jackson for a second term as President. Since then, the convention has evolved into a major political event, featuring speeches by prominent party members, the formal nomination of the presidential and vice-presidential candidates, and the adoption of the party platform.

Structure and Process

The convention is attended by delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. territories. Delegates are typically selected through a combination of primary elections and caucuses held in each state. The number of delegates each state is allocated is based on a formula that considers the state's population and its support for the Democratic candidate in previous presidential elections.

Superdelegates

In addition to pledged delegates, the convention also includes unpledged delegates, commonly known as superdelegates. These are party leaders and elected officials who are free to support any candidate for the presidential nomination.

Key Events

The convention typically spans four days and includes several key events:

• **Keynote Address**: Delivered by a rising star in the party, this speech sets the tone for the convention.
• **Roll Call Vote**: Delegates cast their votes for the presidential nominee.
• **Vice Presidential Nomination**: The presidential nominee selects a running mate, who is then formally nominated by the convention.
• **Acceptance Speeches**: The presidential and vice-presidential nominees deliver their acceptance speeches, outlining their vision for the country.

Notable Conventions

• **1968 Democratic National Convention**: Held in Chicago, this convention was marked by significant protests and clashes between demonstrators and police.
• **2008 Democratic National Convention**: Held in Denver, Colorado, this convention saw the nomination of Barack Obama, the first African American candidate for a major party.

Related Pages

• Republican National Convention
• Democratic Party (United States)
• United States presidential nominating convention
• Superdelegate
• Primary election
• Caucus

See Also

• List of Democratic National Conventions
• History of the Democratic Party (United States)
• Political convention