1.9 Path To The Presidency

Invisible Primary

Unofficial campaigning done by unofficial candidates before the official campaign begins.

Nomination Phase

The phase of the electoral process where candidates are nominated for the presidency through conventions or primaries.

Iowa Caucuses

The first state to hold caucuses in each presidential election year, crucial for candidate momentum.

New Hampshire Primary

The first state to hold a presidential primary each election year, significant for candidate visibility.

Beauty Contest Primary

A type of primary where voters vote for candidates, and state parties select delegates on a proportional or winner-take-all basis.

Super Tuesday

A significant day in the primary season when many Southern states hold their primaries, affecting the nomination process.

Balancing the Ticket

The strategy of selecting a vice-presidential candidate to complement the presidential nominee's qualities or voter appeal.

Front-loading

The trend of scheduling primaries earlier in the election cycle, impacting later primaries' influence.

Voter Demographics in Primaries

Voters in primaries are typically better educated and more affluent than those in general elections.

Delegate Selection Primary

A primary where voters specifically cast votes for delegates who will attend the convention.

Caucuses

Local gatherings where party members discuss and select delegates to higher levels of state conventions.