Why Become a Precinct Delegate 
Serving as a precinct delegate is one of the best ways for an
average citizen to amplify their influence in the political
process and support leaders who stand for traditional values.
The positive results you can accomplish in this role are
powerful and make a real difference. Getting started is easy
and the likelihood of winning a delegate seat is very high.
Each delegate represents their fellow citizens in their
neighborhood. Through votes cast at local and state
conventions, delegates help to shape issues and select
leaders in one of the two major political parties. These
conventions are used to select candidates for the highest
offices in state government.
What is a Precinct?
A precinct is a division of a town or city marked out for the
purpose of organizing votes in elections. Think of it as your
neighborhood. Precincts vary in size and are determined by
population.
Where is My Precinct?
You can get this information from your voter registration card,
from the county, city, or township clerk where you live, or by
checking your voter information at the Secretary of State
website. The next step is to get a map that displays the
boundaries of your precinct. These are available from your
local clerk.
What is a Precinct Delegate?
A precinct delegate is an position to represent a
precinct for one of the two major political parties. Every
precinct has at least one Republican and one Democrat
delegate seat. Some areas have more.
What Does a Precinct Delegate Do?
The official role of a precinct delegate is to attend all county
conventions for their party during their two-year term. Each
party hosts county conventions to select delegates to attend
statewide party conventions, where they select primary
candidates for state-level elected offices (Secretary of State,
Attorney General, etc). There may be three or four county
conventions depending on whether it’s a presidential or
gubernatorial cycle. Precinct delegates also act as a conduit
between their party and their local neighborhood, sometimes
serving in other activities.
When are Precinct Delegates Elected?
Precinct delegates are elected in the August primary election
of even numbered years. In 2024, the primary election is
August 6th. A term is two years long. Delegates elected in
August 2024 will serve until the August primary of 2026.
How Do I Become a Precinct Delegate?
To run for precinct delegate, you must be a registered voter
residing in the precinct where you are running.
How Do I Become a Precinct Delegate?
To run for precinct delegate, you must be a registered voter
residing in the precinct where you are running.
Fill out an “Affidavit of Identity” form, have it notarized and submit it to the county clerk by the deadline (usually early
May). Once processed, your name will show on the ballot in the August primary under
“Candidate for County Convention Delegate.” You can see how many open seats there are
when it says, “Vote for no more than ______”
If the number of candidates is less than or equal to the number
of available positions, you can win your election with a single
vote. If there are more candidates than positions available,
you’ll have to campaign to have a chance at winning.
Getting Elected
Sometimes delegates can win with just a few votes, but don’t
let the ease of your election cause you to sit on the couch. Use
this opportunity to let people know you’re running. Tell them
you’re excited to be a positive voice in the party, that you want
to do your part to serve your neighbors and community, and
that you would appreciate their vote.
Connect With Your Local Party Chair
Introduce yourself and express your enthusiasm to be involved
in the political process. Request to be added to their email list
to stay informed about upcoming activities. Inquire about ways
you can contribute and support the party’s initiatives.
Meet Your Neighbors
Prior to the primary election, contact your township or city
clerk for a map or list of streets in your precinct. Take a stroll
or drive around the neighborhood to observe the homes,
schools, businesses, and churches. Contact your party
leadership for a list of households aligned with your party. This
can help you target voters during bi-annual elections or share
information about candidates in election years.
Make an effort to visit your neighbors by introducing yourself
and bringing your card or flyer. When speaking with them,
briefly mention two or three key things about yourself, such as
your job, your family, and why you’re running for precinct
delegate. Answer any questions they may have. Ask about
their priorities in the neighborhood.
As a precinct delegate, your level of involvement and creativity
in serving your precinct is entirely up to you. Enjoy the
experience and connect with those you aim to represent.
Two Year Cycle
As a precinct delegate, you’ll attend county conventions
during your two-year term as well as state conventions you’re
selected for. To vote at state conventions, you must be sent
from your county convention, which is typically held two
months beforehand. Your county chairs are required to
send notice of these conventions to all precinct delegates.
Election Years (2024, 2026, 2028)
• Traditionally, there are 3–4 conventions. These take place
in spring, summer, and winter. In presidential years, there
may be another convention.
• In gubernatorial election years, statewide candidates such
as Lt. Governor, Attorney General, and Secretary of State
are nominated at the spring convention. These candidates
are then confirmed at the summer convention.
Off Years (2023, 2025, 2027)
• Usually there are 1–2 conventions and a conference (e.g.
GOP Mackinac Conference) for activists and candidates.
• Every two years, your party’s state chair and committee are
selected at the winter convention. You can run for these
positions.
Conventions are a great time to meet activists, candidates and
legislators from all over the state. You might be asked to
campaign for a statewide candidate or advocate for a ballot
initiative. Your support is valuable. Enjoy this incredible
opportunity to decide which candidates appear on the ballot.