The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is the formal governing body of the United States Democratic Party. Founded in 1848, the DNC consists of the chairs and vice-chairs of every state Democratic committee and 200 elected members, and it coordinates strategy to support Democratic candidates throughout the country for local, state, and national office. The DNC formulates party platform and nominates and confirms presidential candidates, although it does not have direct authority over elected officials. It is the Democratic counterpart of the Republic National Committee.