The political dynamics could shift dramatically if the party decides to use a convention rather than a primary, says Stephen Farnsworth, a professor at the University of Mary Washington.
“Conventions have been more appealing, particularly to more conservative Republicans who feel that their vision of Republicanism is greatly advantaged by a convention or caucus system,” Farnsworth says.
One of the chief differences between a primary and convention would be how the presidential campaigns spend their money. Instead of building a ground game, Farnsworth says, they would try to influence power brokers and party leaders.
“The party stands to lose in November if it does not have an aggressive campaign construction during the primary season,” Farnsworth says.
