Is this statement true?

[ProBlue33]

In regards to how bound delegates are counted.

The bound delegates will just be counted...they won't be asked to vote.


Because if it is, then it may be harder than we thought to get past the first round in Tampa, if Mitt gets 1144 hard delegates and none can abstain because they are just automatically counted regardless of preference.

[Titus]

Yeah it will be a hard battle to stop Mitt. In fact, that statement is probably correct. If bound delegates could simply abstain, none would really be bound.

[ProBlue33]

I guess it is critical then that when the delegates go to state BEFORE Tampa they vote to unbind themselves, news of any states that do that will be big news especailly if Mitt has like 1150 hard delegates, but it gets reduced because some were unbound at the state level.
Is it possible any state can pull that off ?

[Titus]

That probably depends on the procedures of each state and would likely require a supermajority (2/3) at state level in the bound states. Yet, looking through all the rules to find what you're asking is a little cumbersome.

[drummergirl]

Each state has rules on the binding of delegates. The state convention can vote to change/amend/suspend rules through the temporary and permanent rules committees or, if done timely, from the state convention floor.

So it can be done, but it requires delegates to the state conventions in every state to be organized and prepared.

The delegation to state from my county meets a couple of times before the convention. Usually it is mainly to coordinate rides, who is sharing hotel rooms, etc., but this year is a little different ;)

[kathy88]

Vote to unbind.