First broken by Mark Preston of CNN, the Republican National Committee has announced that they will begin their 2016 presidential convention on July 18. The convention will go from July 18 to July 21. The convention date is quite early, conventions are typically held in August and September. While conventions have largely devolved to pompous celebrations, they are still quite significant legally. Since conventions are when the candidate officially becomes the nominee, the nominee is able to use general election funds after the convention. When donating money, it is can be donated in two different time groups, primary and general election. The general election funds cannot be used until the general election, or after the primary.
In 2012, the Republican Party found that it was wearing thin on primary funds while also sitting on funds it legally could not use. RNC Chairman Reince Priebus, as part of his plan to improve the party, said that he was looking at moving up the convention in order to open up funds. The Republican convention will be held in Columbus, Ohio.
The Democratic convention, whose location has not been set, has not announced a date. The DNC is still looking at three possible sites, including Columbus.
Read the RNC announcement, featuring a statement from party chair Reince Priebus.
“I’m pleased to announce the 2016 Republican National Convention will kick off on July 18,” said RNC Chairman Reince Priebus. “A convention in July is a historic success for our party and future nominee. The convention will be held significantly earlier than previous election cycles, allowing access to crucial general election funds earlier than ever before to give our nominee a strong advantage heading into Election Day.
“We’re excited to continue working with our partners in Cleveland and we look forward to showcasing everything the city has to offer to our delegates and the world in 2016.”
(h/t: CNN)