How to Become a Delegate

Your candidate needs delegate votes to win the nomination. You can be one of those votes when you become a delegate to the political party of your choice. Though each state follows its national party guidelines when selecting delegates, the process varies from state to state.

Instructions

1. Find the contact number or address of your state's party office for whichever political party you want to become a delegate for. You'll find links to several political party websites at the bottom of this page, through which you can access your state's contact information.

2. Call or write your state's party office requesting the materials necessary for you to apply as a delegate. Since things do get lost or delayed in the mail, it's preferable to call. Speaking to someone directly is the only way to ensure they've received your request. Plus, your materials can be sent immediately rather than waiting on them to receive your request in the mail.

3. Read all materials thoroughly and carefully follow the directions for filling out your application, or Declaration of Candidacy, to become a delegate.

4. Make note of the deadline date, which should be provided in the materials you receive. Though you should certainly spend quality time filling out your application, it's imperative that you ensure its receipt to the appropriate address by the deadline date.

5. Mail your application and follow up with a phone call to ensure its receipt.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your voter registration reflects the political party that you want to become a delegate for.

• Be prepared to provide background information in your application. It varies from party to party and state to state, ranging from your current occupation, to any elected positions you may have held, to your previous involvement with the party.

• If you have any questions about filling out your application, do not hesitate to call your state's party office for answers.