Because convention delegations from California are usually the most important by virtue of the state's having the largest population, denial of a role in the Presidential nominating process would be a huge and embarrassing political blow.

They also pointed to his defection from the Mississippi Democratic Party in 1964, when it was forced to integrate its national convention delegation.

Such a victory would come in a race that under party rules is essentially what is known as a beauty contest, with no convention delegations to be won.

There were parties at Gracie Mansion and receptions for the 56 convention delegations from states and territories.

Hurdles Await McCain The four biggest states will choose the four biggest convention delegations in March.

Mr. Wilson would also enter the 1996 campaign as the favorite to capture California's huge convention delegation, despite the polls that indicate most Californians would prefer that he stayed at home.

That would be about 30 percent of the party's 382-member national convention delegation.

Now, the spotlight returns to Mrs. Vilsack, as she leads the convention delegation from Iowa.

This can complicate the composition of county committees and convention delegations right up to the last minute, they said.

Rich Bond, Mr. Bush's political director, said the practical effect on Michigan's 77 national convention delegation would "clearly have Bush with the most delegates, Kemp second, Robertson third."