What are the different types of elections?

Elections in Pennsylvania are conducted to select representatives in government, put proposed laws on the ballots, and choose officials for state and local offices. There are several types of elections in Pennsylvania, depending on the purpose of the election and the type of office being filled. The most common type of election in Pennsylvania is the general election. This is held every two years, in November, and is used to select members of the United States House of Representatives, United States Senate, and the offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor of Pennsylvania. These candidates are chosen by registered voters of the state. Primary elections are used in Pennsylvania to select nominees for the general election. Voters in primaries vote for the candidate of their choice within each party. Primary elections are held to select the nominees for President in the election year when the office of President is up for election. This election is the same for all states. Special elections are held when a vacancy occurs in a state or local office. These elections are held to fill the vacant seat until the next regular election. For example, if a senator dies, a special election would be held to fill the position until the next general election. Finally, referendums are used in Pennsylvania to allow voters to decide on a particular issue, such as whether or not to approve a tax increase or a bond issue. Referendums can be held during a general election or in a special election. Voters can cast their votes for or against the proposed issue.

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What are the different types of elections?

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