Republican Primary Process
Other People Are Reading
-
Types
-
Prior to a general election, the Republican Party decides who will appear on its ballot. In order to do this, many states have a primary election. States that do not have a primary election have a caucus. Primary elections are either open or closed. In an open primary, voters from different political parties can vote in the Republican primary election. In a closed primary only registered, Republican voters can vote in the Republican primary.
Where
-
The primary process was started in the early 20th century to allow citizens stronger voting power. Primary elections are held by secret ballot. Voters can go to their predetermined voting location, they can mail in an absentee ballot or, if the election is being conducted by mail, they can send in their ballot through the mail. College students living out of state, people living abroad and military personnel can vote in their home state via an absentee ballot. If you are planning on voting with an absentee ballot, you have to apply ahead of time. Some states allow early voting for absentee ballots.
-
Requirements
-
States have different requirements regarding how long you must be registered before you can vote in a primary election. Some states allow you to vote the day you register. Others require voters to be registered for a predetermined period of time. Visit the official website for your state government to determine the requirements in your state. Other voting requirements include that you are at least 18 years of age by the time of the next election, you are a U.S. citizen and a resident of the state you're voting in. People who are in jail or on parole for a felony and people who have been determined mentally incompetent by a court are not eligible to vote.
When
-
Dates for the Republican primary vary by state. Traditionally, New Hampshire has the first primary election. Check your state's official website to determine when your next primary is scheduled.
-
