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Official Democratic Party Election Rules

The Utah Democratic Neighborhood Caucus is governed by the official bylaws of the Utah Democratic Party.

Eligibility Rules

The following eligibility rules govern the 2026 Democratic Neighborhood Caucus Night:

  • Any registered Utah voter may attend, vote, and run for a position
  • No party registration change is required
  • Voters must be registered at their current address in the precinct
  • Voters must sign in at check-in and be verified against the voter roster

Candidacy Rules

Candidates for precinct positions must meet the following requirements:

  • Must be a registered Utah voter in the precinct
  • No prior party registration or experience required
  • Nominations are opened formally during the meeting
  • Self-nominations are permitted
  • Candidates may be asked to affirm support for Democratic Party principles
  • Must not be an officer in another party

Convention Nomination Rules

Delegates elected at the caucus will vote at county and state conventions under these rules:

  • 55% threshold required to win nomination at convention
  • If no candidate reaches 55%, voting continues in subsequent rounds
  • Top two vote-getters advance to a Democratic primary if no majority is reached
  • This differs from the Republican 50%+1 majority rule

Meeting Rules

Precinct caucus meetings follow these basic procedural rules:

  • Meetings are called to order by the temporary Chair or county representative
  • All elections use written paper ballots
  • At least two tellers must count ballots independently
  • Results are announced publicly to all attendees
  • Disputed results may be appealed to the county party
  • Robert's Rules of Order apply to all meeting procedures

Voting Process

Official Ballot Procedures

All elections at the Utah Democratic Neighborhood Caucus use written paper ballots. Follow these steps precisely to ensure every election is valid and transparent.

1

Open Nominations

The Chair officially opens nominations for each position. Attendees may nominate any eligible registered voter — including themselves. Each nominee must accept the nomination before it is placed on the ballot.

2

Candidate Speeches & Q&A

Each candidate gives a brief speech (typically 1–2 minutes). The Chair may open a question-and-answer period. All candidates must be given equal time. The Chair manages the order and timing.

3

Close Nominations

The Chair calls for a motion to close nominations: 'Are there any further nominations? Hearing none, nominations are closed.' No new candidates may be added after this point. This may be done by motion if there is significant discussion.

4

Distribute and Collect Ballots

Uniform blank paper slips are distributed to all verified attendees. Voters write the name of their chosen candidate. Ballots are collected by designated tellers. Each attendee receives one ballot per election.

5

Count Ballots

At least two tellers count all ballots independently and compare their totals. Tellers should not be candidates in the race being counted. Spoiled or illegible ballots are set aside and noted. Tellers report the totals to the Chair.

6

Announce Results

The Chair announces the vote totals publicly. The candidate with a simple majority of votes cast is declared the winner. For multiple Delegate seats, continue rounds of voting until all seats are filled. Results are recorded in the meeting minutes.

Documents

Official Documents & Downloads

Key party documents for attendees, candidates, and hosts. PDF links will be active when documents are received from the state party.

Utah Democratic Party Bylaws

Complete official party bylaws governing the 2026 Neighborhood Caucus Night and all party elections.

Pending from County Party

Caucus Night Agenda Template

Official agenda template for precinct hosts to run the formal meeting in proper order.

Pending from County Party

Ballot Teller Guide

Step-by-step instructions for designated tellers on ballot collection, counting, and reporting procedures.

Pending from County Party

Robert's Rules — Quick Reference Card

One-page reference card for the most common motions and procedures used in precinct caucus meetings.

Coming Soon

Request Documents Directly

To request official caucus documents, contact the Utah County Democratic Party at communications@utcountydems.com.