Primary vs. General Election

Primary Election

A Primary Election is a nominating election in which voters in each political party choose the nominee who will run against the other political parties’ nominees in the General Election. For example, Republicans run against other Republicans and Democrats run against other Democrats for their respective party’s nomination.

General Election

A General Election is held for voters to choose among the candidates nominated in a primary election for federal, state and local offices. The purpose of a general election is to make a final choice among the candidates nominated at the previous Primary Election.