Understanding Primary Elections and Voter Behavior

The video explains the process of selecting presidential candidates in the U.S., highlighting the low voter turnout in primaries compared to general elections. It discusses the demographics of primary voters and reasons for low participation, such as closed primaries and the timing of early primaries. The influence of early states like Iowa and New Hampshire is examined, along with efforts to increase diversity by adding states like South Carolina and Nevada to the early primary schedule.

What percentage of American adults typically vote in the presidential primaries?

• 10%

• 70%

• 20%

• 50%

Which group is more likely to vote in the primaries compared to the general election?

• Non-partisan voters

• Older and more educated voters

• Less educated voters

• Younger voters

What percentage of people under 30 typically vote in the primaries?

• 30%

• 70%

• 10%

• 50%

Which political group is more likely to always vote in primaries?

• Non-partisan voters

• Green Party members

• Tea Party Republicans

• Democratic Socialists

What is one reason why primary voter turnout is low?

• Primaries are only for presidential elections

• Many people feel their vote won't matter

• All states have open primaries

• Primaries are held on weekends

What is a closed primary?

• A primary held on a weekend

• A primary with no media coverage

• A primary open to all voters

• A primary where only party members can vote

Why might a voter in California not participate in the June primary?

• The primary is too early

• California doesn't hold primaries

• The nomination is often decided by then

• The primary is only for local elections

What is Super Tuesday?

• The last day of the primaries

• A day when all states vote

• The first day of the general election

• A day with multiple state primaries

Why do candidates focus on early primary states like Iowa and New Hampshire?

• They have the largest populations

• They generate momentum and media attention

• They have the most electoral votes

• They are the most diverse states

Which states were added to diversify the early primaries?

• Ohio and Michigan

• New York and California

• Texas and Florida

• South Carolina and Nevada