State primaries: what's on the ballot?
By Karis Cooper, Intern
On August 1, Nashvilleans will elect several local officials and cast their primary ballots for state and federal races. In a three part series “What’s on the ballot?”, we’ll explain the local, state, and federal positions up for election this month. What do these officials do? How long do they serve? What even is a primary election? For the answers to these questions and more, follow along on our blog or download the full August Election Guide.
These guides might not include all the elections or relevant information, so be sure to check in with your local election commission!
Tennessee State Primary Elections
Tennessee has its state primaries on August 1 and general election on November 5!
A primary is where people choose which candidate from each party they want to run in the general election against the other party's candidate. The Democratic Party and Republican Party both have state and federal primaries on August 1. Tennessee has open primaries, which means that in order to vote in the primary election, you do not have to be registered with a specific political party. However, you can only vote in one party’s primary at a time.
The Tennessee General Assembly House of Representatives:
Tennessee has 99 House districts which each elect a representative. As the lower chamber of the Tennessee General Assembly, the House votes on laws and the budget. They can also begin impeachment measures against public employees. House members serve on committees to assess proposed legislation in their fields of expertise.
All districts will elect State Representatives this year.
Term length: 2 years
Tennessee General Assembly Senate:
Tennessee has 33 Senate districts which each elect a senator. As the upper chamber of the Tennessee General Assembly, the Senate votes on laws and the budget. They also try impeachment measures begun by the House of Representatives. Senate members serve on committees to assess proposed legislation in their field of expertise.
Only even numbered districts will elect State Senators this year.
Term length: 4 years