Super Tuesday, one of the busiest days in the United States election calendar, is quickly approaching on March 5. Millions of voters are expected to participate in presidential primaries and caucuses across more than a dozen states, with races for the House of Representatives, Senate, and other contests also on the ballot.
On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden is facing minimal opposition and is likely to secure the party’s nomination. However, former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley, the last major candidate challenging former President Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination, may see her campaign come to an end on Super Tuesday.
This year, a total of 874 Republican delegates – about 36% of all available delegates – will be up for grabs on Super Tuesday. For Democrats, 1,439 out of 3,979 total delegates will be at stake.
Fifteen states, including California, Texas, and Virginia, along with American Samoa, will be holding votes on Super Tuesday. The results of the Democratic caucuses in Iowa are also expected to be announced on March 5.
The origins of the term “Super Tuesday” date back to at least 1976, with its current significance emerging in 1988. The day is significant because a substantial number of delegates are allocated by each party, influencing their presidential nominee selection process.
Super Tuesday serves as a pivotal moment in the campaign, with successful candidates gaining momentum and potentially securing additional support. A poor showing, however, could lead to setbacks and the possibility of campaign suspensions.
In this year’s presidential primary contests, a strong performance by Biden and Trump is anticipated. Polls indicate Haley trailing Trump in all Republican contests, suggesting an inevitable outcome for the nomination.
In addition to the presidential primary races, Americans will also be voting in down-ballot races for Senate and House seats, state legislatures, and other local positions.
Key races to watch on Super Tuesday include the Senate seat competition in California and Texas, as well as gubernatorial primaries in North Carolina. The results of these races and others will begin to be reported once polls close in each state and territory.