They come from diverse backgrounds – lawyers, school board members, labor activists, and faith leaders. Some are lifelong Democrats, while others are party newcomers. The 3,939 delegates to the Democratic National Convention range from just turning 18 to pushing 80 years old.
These delegates, some elected and some selected based on state party rules, traditionally have the ceremonial task of nominating the party’s candidate for president. However, in a rare scenario of President Biden stepping down as the nominee, these delegates would have the crucial responsibility of selecting a new nominee.
Most delegates initially joined to be part of a pro-Biden slate, pledging their support to the president. The thought of potentially becoming kingmakers in the party is daunting for many. They may transition from being background figures at a convention to a group determining the party’s future and, in the eyes of many Democrats, the country’s fate.
Despite the unlikely event of Mr. Biden stepping down, many delegates remain unwavering in their loyalty to him as he reassures his commitment to continue in the race. For some, the idea of being released from their pledged status and becoming free delegates is overwhelming.
Phil Swanhorst, a first-time delegate and the chair of the Eau Claire County Democrats in Wisconsin, expressed reluctance to discuss what he would do as a free delegate in such a situation. Instead, he stated that he would defer to the guidance of Ben Wikler, the state party chair.
