Closed Primary

Written by Jonathan Milner

Definition

A primary election in which only voters registered with a party can vote to choose that party's nominees.

Example

Florida and New York hold closed primaries, so voters registered as independents cannot vote in either party's presidential primary there.

 

Questions

  1. Define closed primary.

  2. Explain the difference between a closed primary and an open primary.

  3. Explain why party leaders often prefer closed primaries.

  4. Describe how closed primaries can affect independent voters.

  5. Explain how closed primaries might contribute to political polarization.

  6. Identify one other type of primary used in some states.

  7. Describe how primaries changed the way parties choose their nominees.

  8. Should independent voters be allowed to vote in party primaries? Explain.

  9. What emoji would do a good job of expressing the concept closed primary?

  10. Translate closed primary into plain English.

Remember!

Now, let’s commit this term to our long-term memory. On a scrap piece of paper, take 10 or 20 seconds to draw a closed primary! Draw with symbols or stick figures if you wish. Nothing fancy. Don’t expect a masterpiece. No one else will see this but you. Look at your drawing. That’s all - now it’s downloaded into your memory. Destroy the piece of paper in a most delightful way.

Further Review

AP Exam Prep
$20.00
One time

Get AP Exam Ready with anytime access to our fabulous gamified online exam-prep resources, self-guided workshops, interactive reviews, games, and exclusive content. This comprehensive suite of materials is specifically designed to help students master the content and skills required for success on the AP United States Government and Politics Exam, such as reading comprehension and concept application.

✓ Free Download of High Five Exam Prep ($15 value)
✓ Fabulous Interactive Review Games
✓ Self-Guided Unit Reviews
✓ Self-Scoring Practice AP Exams
✓ Priority Access to Online Review Sessions

GoPo Glossary

Jonathan Milner

Civics Maven!

https://www.gopopro.com/
Previous

Realigning Election
Next

Civil Disobedience