Platform Retention Voting

Problem: The results of plank retention voting are available only after platform debate has started. Our 2008 Convention demonstrated that this new method, tried for the first time, didn't reflect the true will of the delegates when it failed to delete any planks and the delegates soon thereafter deleted all the old planks.

Solution: Simplify the method and move it earlier in the convention.

Benefits: Less floor time needed, but more time available to delegates to make their choices. Less work for the Secretary in advance of the Convention, preparing the tokens.

Note: Gloette Hess, the outside Professional Registered Parliamentarian hired for our 2008 Convention, commented that the current plank retention method is the "worst mess" anywhere in our Bylaws or Convention Rules.


RULE 7: DEBATING AND VOTING -- PLATFORM

2. After the adoption of the convention agenda, the convention will vote whether to delete planks from the existing platform. This will be accomplished as follows:
   a. The Credentials Committee shall issue five signature tokens to each delegate.
   b. Tokens shall only be issued to delegates. Delegates are responsible for transferring possession of unused tokens to their alternates if necessary.
   c. Each delegate may cast each token as a recommendation for deletion of one plank by noting on the token the plank to be deleted and signing the token.
   d. A delegate may cumulate recommendations by casting any number of tokens for deletion of the same plank.
   e. Delegates will be given until one hour prior to the scheduled start of the platform report to mark their tokens and deliver them to the Secretary.
   f. Prior to the scheduled start of the platform report, the Secretary shall review the tokens received and tabulate and report the tokens submitted for deletion of each plank.
   g. As its first item of platform business, the convention shall vote whether to delete each of those planks that received a number of tokens for deletion equal to 20% or more of the number of credentialed delegates. Such votes shall be cast without amendment or debate.

If either four members of the Platform Committee or 10% of the delegates credentialed at the previous Regular Convention petition the Secretary at least 30 days before the opening of a Regular Convention, a plank retention ballot shall be distributed to each delegate by the Credentials Committee. Ballots shall include options to retain all planks and to delete all planks, as well as the option to delete and retain specific planks. Ballots must be submitted to the tellers designated by the Secretary prior to the first scheduled adjournment of the Convention. The Secretary shall announce the results of platform plank retention voting prior to the start of platform debate.