Americans between 18 and 24 years old voted less than any other age group in the 2012 presidential election, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. But with Millennials now outnumbering the Baby Boomers, the 2016 presidential election could see a bigger, younger turnout.
It can be difficult to keep up with all the ins and outs of the political process. With election season now in full swing, it can be even more difficult. Knowing which candidates are still in the race, when your state’s caucuses or primaries are, and even knowing the difference between a caucus and a primary can be challenging for newcomers to the presidential election process.
Generally, a caucus is a meeting where party members and registered voters who identify with a particular party hold a public vote to select their favorite candidate and delegates. Only a handful of states still have caucuses, but every state and territory participates in primaries. A primary is run in a fashion very similar to a general election, with voters lining up to cast private ballots for candidates. Delegates then vote for the candidates at a party’s presidential convention, electing the official candidate of the respective party.
This post will help you make heads or tails of the 2016 race for the White House.
The Candidates
Democrat
Republican
Delegates won through May 4
Democrat
2383 delegates needed to win nomination
Republican
1237 delegates needed to win nomination