What is a primary election?

A primary election is specifically an election in which members of a political party nominate candidates who will run in the general election. This process is crucial for political parties as it allows them to determine which individuals will represent the party in the upcoming electoral contests.

In many cases, primary elections can be either open or closed. In an open primary, voters can choose candidates regardless of their party affiliation, while in a closed primary, only registered party members can vote in their party's primary. This system ensures that party members have a significant voice in deciding their candidates, which can influence the party's platform and electoral strategies.

The other options describe different kinds of elections, such as referendums or general elections, which don't focus specifically on the nomination process within a political party. This recognition of the primary election's role highlights its importance in the democratic system, serving as a critical step in the overall election process.