How are delegates chosen?

In North Carolina, delegates to the Democratic and Republican National Conventions are chosen pursuant to election law. During presidential primary elections, registered party members can cast votes for a particular candidate or uncommitted delegates. These primary votes then determine the number of delegates for each candidate that will attend the national convention. In addition to primary delegates, the North Carolina Democratic and Republican Parties each chose a group of unpledged delegates, who are not required to support a particular candidate. These delegates, often referred to as “superdelegates,” are largely composed of high-level party officials. The number of superdelegates in North Carolina is determined by the respective state party committee each presidential election-year. In addition, the North Carolina state legislature also elects delegates to the national convention, who are free to cast either a Republican or Democratic ballot depending on their party preference. However, these delegates are technically required to support the candidate chosen by the majority of voters in the primary election. Ultimately, the total number of delegates North Carolina sends to the national convention depends entirely on the results of the state presidential primary. Prior to the election, a detailed list of delegates and alternates is published in the state election law.

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