GlassBooth

What, you might say, are the primaries all about? Why are they all people seem to be talking about? What is a caucus? And what is so super about Super Tuesday?

Well here at Glassbooth our crack team of researchers has put together some answers for you.

What is a primary?

A state election where citizens vote to determine which candidates for president (for each party) will be supported by that state at the national convention of each party.

What is a caucus?

Rather than going to polls, citizens get together in groups (at schools, churches, gymnasiums, etc) to elect local delegates. Local delegates then later caucus together to elect national delegates. Depending on what caucus they are at, voters can cast a secret ballot, stand in their respective corner, or raise their hand to indicate who they want to represent them at the county – and in turn, national – convention of that party.

Why are the caucuses and primaries so important?

Simply put, the winners get their party’s nomination to run for president. That being said, a few primaries and caucuses receive more attention than others. The Iowa caucuses, New Hampshire primary, and South Carolina primary have been the constant focus of reporters for months now, mostly due to the early date that they occur.

What is “Super Tuesday”?

“Super Tuesday” is a Tuesday early each year (this year it is Feb. 5th), when numerous states simultaneously hold their primaries. This year, there are 24 states involved in Super Tuesday. With so many states determining whom their delegates will support on Super Tuesday, it is critical for any politician with aspirations of getting their party’s nomination for president to do very well on this day.

Are there any fun facts about the primaries that will make my friends believe I am very knowledgeable, and will serve as good holiday party fodder?

Yes, yes there are.

1. In 1972, Iowa became the earliest primary/caucus when it moved its date to January 3rd each year (that is TODAY!!). The previous “early primary champion” was New Hampshire, which occurs on January 8th each year.

2. Since 1980, every winner of the South Carolina Republican primary has won the party’s nomination.

3. This year there are 24 states involved in Super Tuesday, a new record. The previous record was 16 states, which occurred on March 7, 2000.

4. With only two exceptions (Pat Buchanan & John McCain), win the New Hampshire primary and you’re going to get the Republican nomination. At least this has been the case since 1968.

Should I vote in my state’s primary? Does it even matter?

Yes, yes, and yes again. The primary season is when voters are given the most options to choose from in determining whom they will vote for – we think of it as the candidate buffet (and who doesn’t love a buffet). The environment is your issue? Vote for the candidate who is strongest on it. Gun Control? Same thing. No matter the “what” or “why” of who you want to get your party’s nomination, the primaries represent your chance to determine who that person is. So head to your school, library, church or wherever you vote in your state and cast your ballot. Never will your one vote mean so much again (at least not until 2012).

Check out this site to see when your state’s primary is!