December 27, 2007
With the state's primaries less than a month away, below is a primer on what they're all about and who can participate
What is a presidential primary?
Next month, registered South Carolina voters will be able to vote in either the Republican presidential primary (Jan. 19) or the Democratic presidential primary (Jan. 26). The candidates who win these primaries will receive a certain number of delegates to their party's nominating conventions later next year.
How do presidential primaries differ from other primaries?
Only presidential candidates will be on the ballot. South Carolina voters also may vote next year in primary races for congressional, state and local races. Those primaries will be held in June.
Can I vote in both Republican and Democratic primaries?
No. Anyone who votes in the GOP primary Jan. 19 will be ineligible to vote in the Democratic primary Jan. 26. Because the state is taking over the job of holding the primaries from the respective parties, election officials will know who voted Jan. 19.
Do I need to register with a party to vote?
No. South Carolina is one of a few states that doesn't require people to register by party. However, the deadlines to register for next month's primaries have passed. Plenty of time remains to register for the June 10 primaries and next year's general election.
Do I have to be 18 years old to vote in a primary?
No. South Carolina is one of 10 states that allows 17-year-olds to register and vote in primaries if they will turn 18 before the general election. (In this case, that's Nov. 4, 2008).
Will there be runoffs in the presidential primaries?
No. The candidates will receive delegates based on their vote totals statewide and in each of the state's six congressional districts.
What should I do if I've moved since I registered to vote?
Contact your county's voter registration office to update your address. If you miss the deadline, you may have to vote at your old precinct.
Who can vote absentee?
Registered voters may vote absentee for any one of several reasons, including if they are physically disabled; on vacation; older than 65; employed in a job that prevents them from voting on Election Day; admitted to the hospital at least four days before the election; experiencing a death in the family at least three days before the election; in jail pending trial; in the armed forces, Merchant Marines, Red Cross, USO or are other government employees; attending sick or disabled persons; or working as a certified poll watcher.
How do I vote absentee?
Absentee voting already has begun for next month's presidential primaries. Visit or call your local elections office for a ballot or other information.
Why are the primaries on Saturdays instead of Tuesdays?
Presidential primary dates are set by the political parties " unlike regular primary and general election dates, which are set by state law and almost always on a Tuesday. The state parties picked their dates by considering national party rules, when other states are holding their primaries, and what dates would maximize candidates' campaigning here.
What if I have other questions?
Contact your local voter registration and election office or go to www.scvotes.org. Place your curser on "Voters" and scroll down to "Voter FAQ."
