What is the difference between a primary and general election?

Primary and general elections are two different types of elections that occur in Massachusetts. Primaries are held prior to general elections in Massachusetts. The purpose of a primary election is to choose the candidate from each party who will run in the general election. In Massachusetts, primary elections are held on the first Tuesday in September. During these elections, registered voters in each party can choose which candidate from that party they want to represent them in the general election. After the votes are counted, the candidate with the majority vote is chosen to represent that party. General elections, however, are held on the first Tuesday of November and are open to all registered voters in Massachusetts, regardless of political party. During the general election, all the candidates chosen during the primary election will be in an open competition to receive the most votes. Whoever receives the majority of the votes will be elected to the position in question. In summary, primary elections are used to choose the candidate from each party to represent them in the general election, while general elections are open to all registered voters and determine who will be elected to the position.

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What is the difference between a primary and general election?

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