Sovereignty of Democratic Clubs to Endorse as Desired

(approved by the California Democratic Council Statewide Convention in San Bernardino on June 19th, 2005)

Whereas Democratic clubs are organized to represent grassroots Democrats throughout particular geographical jurisdictions and/or within varied constituency groups; and

Whereas Democratic clubs have a long tradition of community action, political lobbying and comprehensive election outreach; and

Whereas Democratic clubs long have championed their independence in recruiting, interviewing and endorsing the Democratic candidates of their choice for races up and down the ballot;

Be it Resolved, that the California Democratic Council, assembled in Convention, June 17-19, 2005, declares CDC's unwavering support for the ongoing sovereignty of any Democratic club to endorse or not to endorse any Democratic candidate of its choice for any elective or appointed office; and

Be it further Resolved, that the California Democratic Council disagrees with and strongly opposes all efforts by any County Committee to demand a Democratic club's loyalty to a County Committee's candidate slate as a condition of the club's eligibility for chartering or other ongoing formal recognition.