Primary

Definition

A primary is a preliminary election where members of a political party vote to choose candidates who will run for public office in a subsequent election. It serves as a method for the party membership to express their preference for their party's contender in the general election.

Related terms

Caucus: A meeting of supporters or members of a specific political party or movement where they register their opinions or select candidates.

General Election: An election held to choose which candidate will hold office, typically following primaries or caucuses where party nominees are selected.

Delegate: A person authorized to represent others, often used in the context of representing a state or constituency at a national political convention