closed primary

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Sure! Let’s break down the term "closed primary."

Definition

A closed primary is a type of election where only people who are registered members of a specific political party can vote. This means that if you are a member of the Democratic Party, you can only vote in the Democratic primary. If you are a member of the Republican Party, you can only vote in the Republican primary. This system is designed to keep the voting within the party and strengthen the party's unity.

Usage Instructions

• You use "closed primary" when discussing elections, especially within the context of political parties and their nomination processes.
• It is typically used in political discussions, news articles, or academic settings.

Example

• "In a closed primary, Jane, who is registered as a Democrat, can vote for her party’s candidates, but her friend Tom, who is registered as an Independent, cannot."

Advanced Usage

• In political science, closed primaries are often discussed in relation to their impact on voter turnout and party dynamics. Analysts might explore how closed primaries affect the political landscape and the strategies parties use to engage their members.

Word Variants

• Open primary: This is a different type of primary where any registered voter can participate, regardless of party affiliation.
• Semi-closed primary: A system where registered party members can vote, but unaffiliated voters may also be allowed to participate if they choose a party on the voting day.

Different Meaning

• The term "closed" in "closed primary" refers to the restriction on who can vote, emphasizing that the primary is "closed" to those who are not registered with that party.

Synonyms

• Party primary
• Exclusive primary (though less common)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While "closed primary" does not have specific idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it, you might encounter phrases like: - "Toe the party line": This means to support the policies or decisions of your political party, which is relevant in the context of primaries as candidates often need to align closely with party values.

Summary

So, to sum it up, a closed primary is an election where only party members can vote for their candidates. It helps keep the party's focus and ensures that only dedicated members influence who will run in the general election.

Academic

Noun

1. a primary in which only registered members of a particular political party can vote
   • closed primaries strengthen party unity