Primaries are elections held by political parties to select their candidates for the general election. In these contests, party members vote for their preferred candidate, and the winners typically go on to represent the party in the upcoming election. Primaries can be open, allowing any registered voter to participate, or closed, restricting participation to party members only. The primary process is crucial in shaping the political landscape, as it determines which candidates will compete for positions such as President, Senator, or Governor. The results can influence party platforms and voter engagement, making primaries a significant aspect of the democratic process.