In the Room Where It Happens: My Delegate Experience & How to Win a Contested Race

I’ve had the privilege of serving as a delegate to the Indiana Democratic Party State Convention in 2020, 2022, and 2024. Each experience has been energizing and inspiring. In a state like Indiana, there’s something powerful about being in a room with more than 2,000 dedicated, passionate Democrats from every corner of the state. It’s a welcome reminder that we are not alone in our shared values and in our commitment to building a better Indiana.

Jessica and HamCo friends at the 2024 INDems State Convention.

This year is another convention year, and it’s an important one.

Delegates will vote to nominate Democratic candidates for:

• Secretary of State

• State Comptroller

• State Treasurer

The Secretary of State race is contested between Beau Bayh and Blythe Potter, and the nominee will be decided by delegates at convention. This is especially significant because the Secretary of State is the top of the ticket this year and could impact candidates down ballot. 

What to Expect at Convention

After arriving at the convention center and checking in, you’ll receive your credentials. Usually, an agenda will be shared in advance and/or at the event. There is time to mingle with Democrats from around the state, attend caucus meetings (like Stonewall Dems, Young Dems, Women’s Caucus, etc), and hear from candidates. The caucus meetings will be in different rooms and you can pop around from room to room to check them out—no RSVP needed. 

Delegates vote on the party platform and then cast ballots for statewide offices via a secret ballot.

As for attire: there’s no formal dress code. Some people wear blazers and dress pants; others wear campaign shirts and jeans. Wear what makes you comfortable—it’s a long, exciting day.

How to Win a Contested Delegate Race in Hamilton County

If you’ve filed to run in a contested delegate race this year, here are practical strategies:

1. Know Whose Ballot You’re On and Important Dates Hamilton County delegate districts are broken up by township. Pro-tip: Get a map of your township and focus your outreach strictly within those boundaries. Know the early voting dates, primary election day, and the last day to register to vote before the primary.

2. Tell Your Neighbors Start with the relationships you already have within your township. Reach out to neighbors, friends, and community members who know and trust you. Let them know you’re running to serve as a delegate, and ask them for their support by voting for you in the Democratic primary.

3. Canvass With Intention Commit to knocking doors (and/or phone banking) for the county party or a candidate during the primary and while you’re doing it, tell voters:

• You’re running for state convention delegate

• Your name will be on their Democratic primary ballot

• You would appreciate their support

And reminder--make sure your efforts are focused in your township.

4. Show Up Everywhere Attend local political meetings and community gatherings. Encourage people who align with Democratic values to request a Democratic primary ballot — and ask for their vote.

5. Use Social Media Remind people about the Democratic primary and your candidacy for delegate. Consistent, clear messaging helps ensure voters recognize your name when they see it on the ballot.

Join Us

Serving as a delegate is more than attending a convention. It’s grassroots democracy in action! I’ve experienced firsthand how energizing it is to….be in the room where it happens! 😀

If you’re running this year in Hamilton County, thank you. Your effort truly matters.

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We're all Volunteers Here: Jessica Irvine is a long time Carmel Dems member and volunteer, and former Young Dems member. Jessica ran for Carmel City Council in 2023. And she currently serves on the Hamilton County Sewer and Water District Board.