United States presidential primary

A United States presidential primary is part of the process by which political parties nominate candidates for president. The 50 states, the District of Columbia, and five territories hold primaries, caucuses, or both. Voters generally determine how many convention delegates each candidate receives, and the delegates select the party nominee. States schedule contests at different times, usually from January or February through mid-June, before the November general election.

Purpose

Helps political parties nominate presidential candidates

Participants

50 states, the District of Columbia, and five territories

Delegate role

Delegates select the party's presidential nominee