Reply #12: Parties aren't required to have their convention at a specific time

[Ignacio Upton]

Democrats are likely having it late in 2008 because in 2004, when they had it at the end of July, they ended up at a disadvantage in federal election money. The FEC gives out federal funds to both nominees in exchange for them suspending most donating operations. By having their convention first (which is what the party out of power has historically done....example, the Republicans had their '00 convention in late July in the reverse of '04) Kerry had to save money and do a blackout for much of August. Now, during this time, the Swiftboat Veterans came onto the air and started running ads against him. Kerry's eventual response forced him to spend some of his own money to fight them off. Meanwhile, Bush was also able to spend freely and still raise money for a full month after Kerry stopped. The Democrats are trying to end this disparity by having their convention as late as possible.