Primaries and Caucuses

Step 1: Primaries and Caucuses

There are many people who want to be President, each with their own ideas about how the government should work. People with similar ideas belong to the same political party. This is where primaries and caucuses come in. Candidates from each political party campaign through the country to win the favor of their party members.

Beginning in February the main voting events Primaries and Caucuses will lead to a selection of delegates who will represent the people at the upcoming conventions. The main focus will be on the results from Iowa New Hampshire Nevada and South Carolina which can usually determine who the final presidential nominee for each party will be.

In a Caucus

Party members select the best candidate through a series of discussions and votes.

In a Primary

Party members vote for the best candidate that will represent them in the general election.


Back to Summary of the U.S. Presidential Elections Process