Endorsement Voting Process
DAWN is a member-driven organization, and your voice matters. Here’s how our endorsement voting process works:
Candidate Applications
All candidates who meet the qualifications for endorsement submit written applications.
Applications are shared with DAWN members for review prior to the endorsement meeting.
Candidate Presentations
Each qualified candidate will have a set amount of time (typically 5 minutes) to introduce themselves and present their platform at the endorsement meeting.
For ballot measures, representatives from both the “pro” and “con” sides will be given equal time to present (usually 7 minutes each).
Executive Board Recommendations
The Executive Board reviews applications and candidate information, then presents recommendations to the membership through a consent calendar.
Consent Calendar Voting
Members may vote to accept the entire consent calendar as presented.
If a member wishes to discuss a specific item, they may pull it from the consent calendar.
Discussion & Voting (Robert’s Rules)
Once pulled, the item is treated as a regular motion:
A motion is made and seconded.
Members may discuss the motion.
To close debate, a member may “call the question” (motion for the Previous Question).
Requires a second
Requires a two-thirds vote to pass
Membership then votes on the motion.
Eligibility Reminder
Only DAWN members in good standing as of the membership cutoff date (specified in each endorsement notice) may participate in the voting and discussion process.
Members generally must be in good standing 30 days prior to the vote.
However, in certain circumstances (such as special elections), the cutoff date may be shortened.