ADEM Elections

By Tomas Vera
Chair, Placer DCC Communication Committee

You recently received an announcement regarding the upcoming ADEM 5 elections. You may be wondering “What are ADEM elections?” “How do they affect me?” and “Should I be a candidate?” Let’s get some answers!

What are ADEM elections?

The California Democratic Party (CADEM) Bylaws (Article VI) provide that an Assembly District Election Meetings (ADEMS) be held in each of the 80 California Assembly Districts in January of each odd-numbered year to elect 7 “self-identified female” and 7 “other than self-identified female” to be Assembly District Delegates (ADDs) to represent the Assembly District in which they are registered. These elections are open to all California Democrats. (source: https://www.adem.cadem.org/)

How do they affect me?

Assembly District Delegates (ADD) and the Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC) are responsible for planning and attending informational meetings throughout the region and working with other DSCC delegates throughout California to represent their community.

ADD delegates vote within the CA Democratic Party on behalf of the community they represent at CDP Regional Meetings and the California Democratic Party Convention. Those who are also elected to serve as an Executive Board member are responsible for voting and representing their community at the semi-annual E-Board meetings.
 

Should I be a candidate?

ADD Delegates are elected by voters (to participate in the ADEM you MUST be a registered Democrat in that Assembly District) to represent them at CADEM conventions and Executive Board meetings.

You will be expected to participate in at least one convention every year. If you are elected to be a member of the CDP Executive Board, you will be expected to participate in two or more Executive Board meetings. The meetings take place in various locations throughout California. You are responsible for your travel and lodging. Costs can exceed $500/ meeting.

Delegates are eligible to join CDP Standing committees at which you will be able to provide input to such essential functions such as Rules, Fundraising, Resolutions, and Legislation (among others). You will also be able to participate in the CDP endorsement process as the CDP selects its candidates in the next election cycle.

OK - so now what?

In 2023, the ADEM elections will be a hybrid vote-by-mail election. The procedures are explained in detail on the ADEM Elections website.

If you are considering becoming a candidate in the ADEM election for the Assembly District in which you are registered, you must submit your application and $40 candidate fee by December 9, 2022.

To vote for the ADEM candidates in your Assembly District, you must request a mail in ballot online no later than December 31, 2022.

We encourage all registered Democrats to participate in the ADEM election for your district. This is your ability, at a grassroots level, to affect the direction of the California Democratic Party. Remember - your voice is your vote.

For more information and to register as a candidate or to vote by mail, please visit the ADEM Elections website: https://ademelections.com/