What is the difference between a closed and open primary election?

A primary election is an election held prior to a general election to decide which candidate will be on the ballot for the general election. In Virginia, there are two types of primary elections: closed and open. A closed primary election is one in which only voters registered with a particular political party can participate. In this type of primary, only registered voters affiliated with the Democratic or Republican party can vote in their respective primaries. The results of the closed primary election determine the two candidates who will appear on the general election ballot. An open primary election is one in which all registered voters can participate regardless of their party affiliation. These primaries are open to independent voters, as well as those who are aligned with a political party. In an open primary, multiple candidates from each party may appear on the ballot, and the highest vote-getter from each party will appear on the general election ballot. In Virginia, the type of primary election used is determined by the governing body of each particular jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions may use a closed primary, while others may use an open primary. It is important for voters to know which type of primary election is used in their particular jurisdiction in order to be prepared to participate in the election.

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What is the difference between a closed and open primary election?

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