Primaries 5.1

Question 1

Primaries: Functions

Answer 1

• Show popularity of presidential candidates
• Choose delegates for national party conventions
• Run under state law, leading to variations

Question 2

Timing of Primaries

Answer 2

• States decide primary dates within a range set by national parties (mid-January to early June)
• Early primaries, like New Hampshire’s, gain prominence
• Regional primaries coincide with neighbouring states (e.g., Super Tuesday)

Question 3

Types of Primaries

Answer 3

• Closed Primaries: Only registered party members vote
• Open Primaries: Cross-over voting allowed; any registered voter can participate
• Modified Primaries: Independents can vote in either party’s primary

Question 4

Delegate Selection

Answer 4

• Most primaries use proportional representation
• Minimum vote thresholds set for delegate allocation (usually 10-15%)

Question 5

Incumbent Presidents

Answer 5

• Little coverage when an incumbent is running
• Some states may cancel primaries if incumbent faces no serious opposition