Seconder

A seconder is a member of a deliberative assembly who seconds a motion or proposal, indicating support for its consideration and discussion. The practice is common in parliamentary procedure and organizational meetings, and its exact requirements vary by rules or bylaws.

In operation, after a member makes a motion, the chair typically asks for a second. If no one seconds the motion, it may be deemed not to have been properly before the assembly and may be set aside or the chair may invite amendments or a different motion. If the motion is seconded, it proceeds to debate or other steps as dictated by the governing rules. The act of seconds does not necessarily reflect agreement with the motion; it simply signals that at least one other member believes the proposal warrants discussion.

The seconder’s role is usually limited to signaling support, though the seconder may choose to speak in favor of the motion or to explain why they support it. The identity of the person who seconds the motion is often recorded in the minutes, along with the motion itself. In some organizations, a second is required for all motions, while in others it is optional or depends on the type of motion; certain motions may not require a second to proceed.

In nomination settings, a similar concept exists where a candidate’s nomination is supported by a proposer and one or more seconders, who publicly back the nomination to advance it to consideration.