Definition of a Direct Primary
Unlike a primary where voters select delegates that will vote for a candidate in a convention or caucus, a direct primary is an election that allows voters to elect a candidate from their political party that will then go on to a general election.There are three types of direct primaries: closed, semi-open and open.
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History
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Primary elections became part of the American political landscape in the early 1900s, when progressives wanted more of a voice in choosing candidates. Primaries allowed voters to select their party's candidate for a general election.
The Closed Primary.
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In a closed primary, only voters who have declared themselves members of a political party may vote in that party's primary.
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The Semi-Open Primary
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In a semi-closed primary, a political party permits crossover voting, allowing people registered with other political parties to vote in a given primary. Sometimes, permission for crossover voting is only granted to certain other parties; for example, a Democratic party primary may only allow non-partisan voters or Green party voters to vote in their primary.
The Open Primary
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In an open primary, voters can participate in any party's primary that they choose.
Issues with Direct Primary Elections
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At times, voters are concerned that open and semi-open primaries can be decided by "spoilers," voters of the opposing party who will vote for the least desirable candidate.
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