Raleigh – The North Carolina Democratic Party hosted County Conventions across the State on Saturday, April 25, bringing together candidates, members and activists as the party gears up for the 2020 general election. 

Virtual conventions were held in 90 of North Carolina’s 100 counties, drawing more than 9,600 participants, a significant increase from 2016 participation totals. Typically held in person, the conventions’ adjustment to a virtual format is the latest show of digital organizing strength by the NCDP. This virtual adjustment is just one example of how the party is preparing for a monumental general election as the nation’s most important battleground state. 

“We’re thrilled with the overwhelming level of interest and excitement in participating in this year’s Democratic County Conventions,” said NCDP Chairman Wayne Goodwin. “In recent weeks, our staff has worked tirelessly to assist county parties in adapting these events into a virtual platform, and on Saturday, fired up Democrats across North Carolina participated in record numbers. Our members are energized, united and ready to take on President Trump and Republicans down the ballot in November.” 

Wake and Mecklenburg Counties had the highest turnouts for their conventions, 845 attendees and 703 attendees respectively. Many rural counties like Watatuga (285), Lenior (201) and Brunswick (193) had impressive turnouts as well, despite a lack of wide-spread access to reliable broadband internet.

In March, The Democratic National Committee the North Carolina Democratic Party Executive Council approved a resolution that would move all County and District conventions to a virtual platform and postpone them to a later date. The District Conventions will now be held on May 16, 2020.