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Maine Democrats Approve Superdelegate Change

Maine Democrats have approved a change that could alter how the party selects presidential candidates in future elections. Activists overwhelming adopted the rule to ensure that state delegates vote proportionally to party caucus results in the next presidential election.

The party approved the change during the party’s convention in Portland on Saturday and after a vigorous debate.

Portland state Sen. Justin Alfond, who presided over the convention, called for the vote.

The change was proposed by Portland state Representative Diane Russell, who says the current use of super delegates is undemocratic. Currently, superdelegates can vote for whichever presidential candidate they choose, regardless of the party’s caucus results.

Bernie Sanders supporters pushed for the change. They hope it will improve the Vermont senator’s chances for the nomination when Democrats convene for the national convention in Philadelphia in July.

But the rule does not require Maine superdelegates to adhere to the change this year. Some Sanders wanted the change to take effect now. But party officials warned that doing so would violate Democratic National Committee rules and jeopardize Maine’s representation at the national convention.

Journalist Steve Mistler is Maine Public’s chief politics and government correspondent. He is based at the State House.