Next up in the explainer series is a look at the Florida Preference Primary.
The deadline to register for the primary is fast approaching, so let’s get some facts straight.
The Florida PPP will be held on March 17. Because it is a closed primary, only members of individual parties can take part. This means independents cannot vote. But there’s still time! The deadline to register for a political party — or change it — is Feb. 18.
But will Floridians’ votes really matter? The Sunshine State is relatively late in the primary calendar, behind big states like Texas and California. If those early voting states determine a clear favorite, the vote here will be less important.
But if there isn’t a clear favorite by March 17, Florida voters may have a lot of power because of the state’s large population.
The PPP is not the only primary that takes place in Florida this year. Aug. 18 is the date for the state primaries, which includes congressional and local races.
To register or change your party affiliation go to www.vote.org.
In addition, information on early voting schedules and sites can be found on individual county elections’ websites. Miami-Dade’s is here.