When both parties are holding primaries, why do I have to state a party preference to vote?

You are not stating a party preference when you go to vote, you are merely indicating in which party’s primary you wish to participate.  Under Virginia law, a dual primary consists of two separate elections (or nominating events) conducted on the same day for the same or different office or offices. These are two distinct events occurring on the same day in accordance with Virginia law.  Each requires separate poll books, separate ballots and/or ballots boxes, and separately tallied results. Virginia law only allows you to vote in only one of these two separate elections.

Show All Answers

1. When do elections take place?
2. When are the polls open?
3. Do I have to show identification at the polls?
4. What do I do if I've moved or changed my name since I last voted?
5. When both parties are holding primaries, why do I have to state a party preference to vote?
6. Where do I file a suggestion or complaint about voting in Charlottesville?
7. I have questions about the voting system used in Charlottesville. Where do I go?
8. I committed a felony many years ago. Can I vote?
9. I’m not 18 yet but want to work at the polls on Election Day. How can I do this?
10. Where can I find registration and voting information for college students?
11. How do I register to vote in Virginia?
12. What is my residence?
13. How do I vote?
14. How does voter registration impact other areas?