Superdelegates

Definition

Democratic Party delegates who can vote for whomever they want regardless of primary results, because the party values flexibility over democratic principles.

Example Usage

Bernie Sanders won the most delegates but lost the nomination when superdelegates coalesced around Biden.

Origin

Introduced in 1982 Democratic Party rules as a party establishment safeguard

Fun Fact

The Democratic Party reduced superdelegate power significantly after 2016, though they still exist.

Source: Democratic National Committee Rules Documentation

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