In advance of the upcoming Maine Democratic State Convention in May, the Maine Democratic Party is inviting all state Democrats to consider running for state delegate to represent their community in the party’s internal election process.

The convention is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, May 13 and 14, in Bangor. A remote attendee option creates the opportunity for the broadest representation to participate from across the state, according to a news release from the Lincoln County Democratic Committee, based in Damariscotta.

By participating at the convention, state delegates can propose and vote on changes to the party’s issue platform and internal rules, as well as elect the members of Democratic State Committee. The committee is the body that works on behalf of all Maine Democrats between biennial conventions in order to elect officials and effect policy that promotes the values set forth in the party platform.

Lincoln County is allotted at least 104 delegates and 104 alternates across all towns. If the towns in the county cannot fill their individual slots, they are filled by voters from other towns in the county. If the county cannot fill its 208 slots, then the slots are open to others in the state.

“At last count, we still have a lot of nomination spots available. I know we can fill them. Without holding our regular caucuses, it’s just a matter of getting the word out,” said Chris Johnson, chair of the Lincoln County Democratic Committee.

“I encourage anyone who has ever considered learning more about how our party works and anyone who wants to help make our party what it can be, to participate at this year’s convention. It’s going to be safe and simple to attend either in-person or online, and this continues to be an important time in working to preserve and strengthen our democracy,” he added.

Nominations for state delegate are open through Sunday, Feb. 20 and online voting will take place from Sunday, Feb. 27, to Sunday, March 6. Participation is open to all Maine Democrats.

The nomination form can be found at lincolncountydemocrats.com/signup2022. In order to promote full participation, those without internet access can instead call 207-530-6391 to sign up and receive further instruction.

For more information, contact the Maine Democratic Party at [email protected] or 207-530-6391.