How do primaries and caucuses actually work? Flashcards
(20 cards)
What are primaries in the context of presidential elections?
Primaries are elections held by political parties to select their candidate for the general election.
What is a caucus?
A caucus is a local gathering where party members discuss and vote for their preferred candidate.
True or False: Primaries can be either open or closed.
True
What is the difference between open and closed primaries?
In open primaries, any registered voter can participate, while in closed primaries, only registered party members can vote.
Fill in the blank: Caucuses are generally considered to be more ______ than primaries.
time-consuming
What is the purpose of primaries and caucuses?
The purpose is to determine the number of delegates each candidate will receive for the party’s national convention.
How are delegates awarded in primaries?
Delegates can be awarded on a winner-takes-all basis or proportionally based on the votes received.
What is a national convention?
A national convention is an event where a political party officially nominates its candidate for president.
True or False: All states hold their primaries on the same day.
False
What is the term for the period leading up to the presidential election when primaries and caucuses occur?
The primary season
Which state is known for holding the first primary in the United States?
New Hampshire
What is the significance of Super Tuesday?
Super Tuesday is a day when multiple states hold their primaries simultaneously, significantly impacting delegate counts.
True or False: Caucuses often involve secret ballot voting.
False
What role do party platforms play in primaries?
Party platforms outline the policy positions and principles of the party, influencing candidate selection.
Short Answer: Why might a candidate choose to participate in a caucus instead of a primary?
A candidate may participate in a caucus to engage with party activists and gain grassroots support.
What is the term for the delegates pledged to support a specific candidate at the national convention?
Pledged delegates
Fill in the blank: The process of primaries and caucuses is a crucial part of the ______ process.
nomination
What is a ‘front-runner’ in the context of primaries?
A front-runner is a candidate who is leading in the polls and expected to win the nomination.
What impact do endorsements have in primaries?
Endorsements can significantly boost a candidate’s visibility and credibility, influencing voter decisions.
True or False: Primaries and caucuses are the same in every state.
False
