So, why are primary elections important? These points from the US Vote Foundation provide an answer.

· Primary elections give you, the voter, the opportunity to decide who from a pool of candidates should ultimately be nominated by your political party to run in the general election.

· Primary elections generally attract more partisan voters, which is how extreme candidates can end up on the ballot in a general election. Improving participation can help to moderate the outcomes.

· Based on voter turnout and primary results, parties may rework their election strategy and devote more or less attention and resources towards certain demographics, states, and issues.

· Candidates who receive mass support but ultimately don’t win primary elections can sometimes still influence the winning candidate and the platform they take to on the general election.

The Pennsylvania primary is right around the corner on April 23. Please take the time to come out and vote!