What is the difference between a direct and indirect election?

Direct and indirect elections are two types of voting systems used in elections in Virginia. A direct election is one in which citizens cast their vote for a candidate or ballot measure directly, and the winner is the candidate who receives the most votes. This system is used for most local, state, and federal elections. In an indirect election, citizens vote for representatives who then cast their votes to choose the winner. This type of election is most commonly used for presidency or other offices that require electors. The electors, who are usually chosen by the political parties, are then responsible for voting for the president or other office. The most important difference between a direct and indirect election is that in a direct election, the people directly elect the winner, while in an indirect election, the people vote for representatives or electors who then select the winner. In Virginia, an indirect election is used to determine the Governor and Attorney General, while a direct election is used for all other state elected offices. The federal government also uses both systems, but all state legislatures have the power to choose which system they use for federal offices.

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