Electoral College - A group of persons called "electors," selected by the voters in each state, that officially elects the president and vice president. The number of electors in each states is equal to its number of representatives in both houses of Congress. Initiative - An electoral procedure whereby citizens can propose legislation or constitutional amendments and refer the decision to a popular vote by obtaining the required number of signatures on a petition. Machine - A hierarchically organized, centrally led state or local party organization that rewards members with material benefits (patronage). Office-Block Ballot - A ballot listing all candidates for a given office under the name of that office; also called a "Massachusetts" ballot. Party-Column Ballot - A ballot listing all candidates of a given party together under the name of that party; also called an "Indiana" ballot. Split-Ticket Voting - Voting for candidates of different parties for various offices in the same election. For example, voting for a Republican for senator and a Democrat for president. Straight-Ticket Voting - Voting candidates who are all of the same party. For example, voting for Republican candidates for senator, representative, and president. Other Sources of Information:Library of Congress Teaching materials for educating students on the electoral process. United States Election Assistance Commission Resources for voters Voting and Elections USA.gov’s page on election processes
This advisory provides answers to some commonly asked questions related to party affiliation and voting in the primary election. If you have additional questions related to affiliation, please contact the Secretary of State at 1-800-252-VOTE (8683). All statutory references in this advisory are to the Texas Election Code (“the Code”), unless otherwise indicated. General Affiliation Questions
Candidacy Affiliation QuestionsPlease see our Candidates Guide for frequently asked questions on candidacy and party affiliation. If you have any questions regarding this advisory, please contact the Elections Division toll-free at 1-800-252-VOTE(8683). KI:CA:LP |