ABC News Contested Convention: Election 2020
Contested Conventions and the Electoral College
In the United States, a contested convention occurs when no candidate receives a majority of delegates during the nominating process. This can happen if no candidate wins a majority of the popular vote or if there is a tie between the top candidates. In this case, the delegates would vote at the national convention to choose the party's nominee.
The Electoral College is a system in which each state is allocated a certain number of electors based on its population. The candidate who wins the popular vote in a state typically wins all of that state's electors. The candidate who wins the majority of electoral votes (at least 270) becomes the president.
The 2020 Democratic National Convention
The 2020 Democratic National Convention was held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, from August 17 to 20. The convention was originally scheduled to be held in person, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was held virtually. Former Vice President Joe Biden was nominated for president, and Senator Kamala Harris was nominated for vice president.
Contested Primaries
The 2020 Democratic presidential primaries were one of the most contested in recent history. Biden won the most delegates, but he did not secure a majority. Other candidates who received a significant number of delegates included Senator Bernie Sanders, Senator Elizabeth Warren, and former Mayor Pete Buttigieg.
The Convention Process
The Democratic National Convention is a four-day event that includes speeches by party leaders, delegates, and activists. The convention also includes votes on the party's platform and rules. On the final day of the convention, the delegates vote for the party's nominee for president and vice president.
The 2020 Republican National Convention
The 2020 Republican National Convention was held in Charlotte, North Carolina, from August 24 to 27. The convention was originally scheduled to be held in person, but due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it was held virtually. President Donald Trump was nominated for president, and Vice President Mike Pence was nominated for vice president.
Uncontested Primaries
The 2020 Republican presidential primaries were not contested. Trump was the only candidate who filed to run for president, and he won the nomination without any opposition.
The Convention Process
The Republican National Convention is a four-day event that includes speeches by party leaders, delegates, and activists. The convention also includes votes on the party's platform and rules. On the final day of the convention, the delegates vote for the party's nominee for president and vice president.
The General Election
The 2020 general election was held on November 3, 2020. Biden defeated Trump, winning the popular vote by more than 7 million votes and the Electoral College by 306 to 232.
Contested Results
Trump and his allies have repeatedly made unsubstantiated claims of widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election. These claims have been rejected by state and federal election officials, as well as by courts. There is no evidence to support the claim that the election was stolen from Trump.
Comments