Who determines the timing of the conventions?

[Poiuyt]

There must be some coordination to make sure they aren't held on the same week. But it seems whichever party goes last would have an advantage since that is who is fresh in the public's memory. This is especially true this year when they are so far apart.

[Red State Rebel]

1. Each Party Sets Their Date....

I don't know if there is any protocol as to who gets first choice on dates.

[Chili]

2. try this link...

http://www.cfinst.org/eguide/partyconventions/background/locations.html

Lots of info on that site.

From that list, it looks like the incumbent party gets to set the date... which means they always go last. You have to go back to 1932 before that pattern is broken.

[mbali]

3. I think the incumbent party sets the date of their own convention

but not that of the challenger.

[Chili]

4. right...

...they must get to pick last, though. Or... maybe they pick first, and the challenging party has to choose a date prior to the incumbent.

[mbali]

5. I'll try to find out . . .