A delegate is a person chosen or elected to represent a group at a conference, meeting, or legislative assembly. Delegates often have the authority to make decisions or vote on behalf of the people they represent, ensuring that their interests and opinions are considered in discussions and decision-making processes. In political contexts, delegates may be involved in selecting candidates for elections or shaping party policies. For example, during the U.S. presidential primaries, delegates are awarded to candidates based on their performance in state elections, influencing the nomination process for the presidential election.