The selection of delegates in Tennessee is governed by the rules of each party. T.C.A. § 2-13-318. The Republican Party chooses some of its delegates by popular vote. The following procedures apply to Republican delegate-candidates only.

Types of Delegates

The Republican Party elects two types of delegates. At-large delegates represent the entire state and appear on the ballot in every county. Delegates are also elected from each congressional district.

Delegates can be committed to a candidate, which means they pledge to support the candidate through at least two rounds of balloting at the convention. Alternatively, a delegate can choose to run as an uncommitted candidate.

Three Required Documents

1. Nominating Petition: A delegate-candidate must obtain the signatures and addresses of at least twenty-five (25) registered voters who are eligible to vote to fill the position. 

Petitions are only available from the Tennessee Division of Elections at 312 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, 7th Floor, William Snodgrass Tower, Nashville, TN 37243 or by calling 877-850-4959. The first date to pick up a petition is September 15, 2023. Petitions can be picked up in person or mailed to the candidate. 

2. Declaration of Candidacy: Along with the petition, a delegate-candidate must file a declaration of candidacy certifying that they are a member of the party and, if elected, that they will attend the convention unless prevented by sickness or other events beyond their control. T.C.A. § 2-13-307(a).

If the delegate-candidate is committed to a particular presidential candidate, the delegate-candidate must name the presidential candidate and sign an additional pledge on the declaration of candidacy. T.C.A. §§ 2-13-307(b) and 2-13-308.

3. Written Consent for Committed Delegates: Committed delegate-candidates must also file written consent from the presidential candidate. By statute, the committed delegate must file the written consent from the presidential candidate by 12:00 noon on the same day as they file their nominating petition and declaration of candidacy. T.C.A. § 2-13-309(a). If the written consent, nominating petition, and declaration of candidacy are not properly filed on the same day, the delegate-candidate will be placed on the ballot as an uncommitted delegate.

Delegate-candidates should contact the campaign they wish to represent for more information on how to receive consent from the presidential candidate. 

Filing Information

Qualifying Deadline: The last day to file the petition, declaration of candidacy, and written consent in the Division of Elections is 12:00 noon Central time on December 14, 2023. A petition, declaration of candidacy, and written consent filed by mail must be received by 12:00 noon Central on that date. 

Fees: The Tennessee Republican Party charges a delegate filing fee of $100. This fee is collected by the Tennessee Republican Party, not the Tennessee Division of Elections.

For Additional Information

For questions about the delegate selection process, convention, and party procedures, please contact:

Tennessee Republican Party
95 White Bridge Road, Suite 414
Nashville, TN 37205
(615) 269-4260