Frequently Asked Questions

What are superdelegates?

Superdelegates are a group of 796 Democratic Party officials who will cast powerful votes for our next nominee for President. Each superdelegate’s vote counts as much as 13,000 regular votes. Superdelegates can vote for whichever candidate they want, regardless of who the voters have chosen.

Why are superdelegates important this year?

This year, with two capable and inspiring candidates running for the nomination, voters have turned out in record numbers. Neither candidate has won the majority of elected delegates necessary to claim the nomination, and it is unlikely that either will. The final decision about the Democratic Party’s 2008 presidential nomination will likely rest with the superdelegates--not the voters.

Why shouldn’t the superdelegates decide the nominee?

This is a critical election year, and the Democratic Party needs to be unified to back our nominee in the general election. That won’t happen unless all Democratic voters can be sure that their votes were weighed fairly.

What’s a fair solution?

Let the voters decide. In order to compete in the general election with a strong party and a strong nominee, Democratic voters need to know this nomination was a fair one. We are calling on all superdelegates to pledge to cast their votes for the candidate who has won the most elected delegates. Please join us by signing the petition.

Why is this the best solution?

Read more for a for a detailed explanation of why this is the most fair and democratic solution.