RPI Chair Election Saturday

Just a short post to clear up a couple of misconceptions. Both the Des Moines Register and Iowa Independent have stated that the SCC meeting this Saturday is closed to the public and the press. This information is incorrect. This meeting, and all other SCC meetings are open to the public unless the SCC explicitly goes into executive session. [[Clarification: The meeting itself will be open to activists but NOT to the press. There will be a press conference at 12:30 at RPI to introduce the new team.]]

According to Article IV Section 6 of the RPI Bylaws: (FYI: Here is a link to the RPI Constitution as well.)

All meetings of the Central Committee shall be open to the public, except Executive Sessions ...

There is no desire on the part of the SCC to take the meeting into executive session.

While I know that some activists are calling for a roll call vote, this vote will be by secret ballot. Just like in the House and Senate caucuses, leadership votes are almost always by ballot. I have promised to publish the vote totals here. (Since I am not liveblogging the event — I will be scopped on this one.) The votes of individual SCC members are not public. Of course, you may ask your SCC members how they voted.

Comments

[IowaFan]

you're a good man, David Chung; I'm glad I voted for you. safe travels...

[Tim]

David, I fear the SCC meeting on Saturday will be akin to a "minefield" planted with "explosive expectations."

Has the agenda been distributed to the SCC members? If so, where is the election placed in the order of business? This could be a classic nightmare as most agendas place new business (aka elections) towards the latter end of the proceedings. Since the SCC just conducted an open forum to provide the public with access to the candidates, is there any expectation for additional "campaigning & comments" at this meeting?

My fears are born of current circumstance. I sense a "photo finish" and it's likely the top candidate(s) will encourage a show of support" at 621 E. 9th. Brother, if you thought it was crowded last Saturday...

That said, from a parliamentary perspective, I prefer to humble myself compared to your excellent grasp of Henry M. Robert and would pray that your wise counsel and leadership will prevent this meeting from taking on the flavor of a out of control presser!

Dare I say the body suspend the rules and conduct the election up front? I would also remind your readers that boards routinely meet in executive session in order to complete the agenda with control and efficiency.

I suggest the election is conducted immediately, go into a short "recess" to allow for the "tradition of celebration" and then most of the crowd will leave.

You will be in prayers for wisdom and strength my friend!

[tony in adel]

David,
Love the blog, but I think you may be wrong on whether the meeting is open to the public. I've always been told it's closed doors.

tony

[Nicky B]

Tony,

whomever told you that was wrong. SCC meetings are open to all party members according to the bylaws, unless the SCC VOTES to go to closed session.

I can send you a copy of the bylaws if you wish... or perhaps they are posted on the web somewhere.

[hawkeyegop]

Nicky,

There is a link to the bylaws in this post.

HawkeyeGOP

[NickyB]

oh, boy... am I blind today or what? :)