News

Tuesday's Primary Is Another Big One

by Erin Corbett

Tuesday is another big day for the presidential primaries — specifically six more states will go to the polls, effectively making another loaded Super Tuesday. So, who can vote on March 15? Primary votes will be taking place in Florida, Illinois, Missouri, Northern Mariana Islands for Republicans (the Democratic caucus was Saturday), North Carolina, and Ohio. Overall, this will be a big day for both the Republican and Democratic parties — there will be 367 total delegates available to Republican candidates, and 792 delegates at stake for Democratic candidates.

But all eyes will be on Florida, Missouri, and Ohio because they all allocate delegates on a winner-take-all basis (on the GOP side, at least), with 489 delegates at stake there alone for Democrats, and 217 on the Republican side. It's already clear at this point that the 2016 presidential race is one that is especially important and every single vote matters, so if you're registered to vote in one of Tuesday's states, make sure you head out to a polling place in your state.

If you're confused about voting in your state's primary, here is a quick step-by-step explainer on getting out and casting your vote in each of Tuesday's primary states.

Florida

Florida's primaries are closed, which means you can only vote within your registered party. You must be a citizen and a Florida resident, and you have to be at least 18 years of age to vote. Early voting was open between March 5 and March 12, so Tuesday marks your last shot to having your voice heard.

Illinois

Illinois' primaries are semi-closed. This means that if you are registered with a specific party, you can only vote within your party. However, if you are unaffiliated with either party, you can request a ballot to vote with whichever party you choose. Illinois also has same-day registration at select locations. You can vote in Illinois if you're a citizen, a resident, and 17 years of age (you must turn 18 on or before the general election date).

Missouri

Missouri's primaries are open, which means you can vote with any party regardless of your affiliation. You must have been registered by Feb. 17 to vote in Missouri.

Northern Mariana Islands Republican Caucus

Two caucuses are held for the Northern Mariana Islands on March 15. The first vote is for presidential preference, and the second for the electing delegates. The six elected delegates will be bound to the preferred presidential candidate.

North Carolina

North Carolina's primary is similar to Illinois', with semi-closed primaries. If you plan to vote in North Carolina, you can only vote within your registered party, unless you are unaffiliated. You must be both a citizen and a resident, and like Illinois, can vote if you're 18 years old or will be that age by the general election.

Ohio

Ohio's primaries are open, so you can vote with any party — like in Missouri. Early voting is open until March 14, so if you want to or need to vote early, make sure to do so by Monday. You can vote in the primaries if you're 17 years old, as long as you will be 18 by the general election.

Make sure to get out and vote!

Images: Giphy (2)