Why You Should Vote in the May 10 Primary Election: Part II

Primary elections determine which candidates will be on the ballot in November. If you vote in a place where one political party absolutely dominates, then the primary often determines which candidate ends up holding the office. Whether you find that tendency reassuring or dispiriting, it matters that you are heard. Even if you’re not a “party person,” many of the non-partisan races turn on important issues. This seems especially true in education this year, where debates over topics like health education standards, COVID-19 mitigation, and teaching the history of race in America continue to make headlines and motivate candidates. If you want to know more about primary electorates, check out this fairly comprehensive review of the research, compiled by the think tank, New America.