Final answer:
The primary and caucus systems are used to select party nominees, with primaries typically having a higher turnout due to their simplicity. Primary election returns lead to delegate allocation, who then nominate the party candidates at national conventions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The primary system and the caucus system are two methods used to select party nominees for political offices, particularly the presidency. Primaries tend to have higher turnout compared to caucuses. This is because primaries are more straightforward—a voter simply casts a ballot, while a caucus is a more involved process requiring voters to attend a meeting that can last several hours and include public discussions and votes. Additionally, primaries may distribute delegates on a winner-take-all basis or proportionately to the vote, whereas caucuses involve members selecting delegates to represent their choice at a convention. The early primaries and caucuses, such as the Iowa Caucus and the New Hampshire Primary, are particularly important because they can significantly narrow the field of candidates.
Turning to the nomination process, primary election returns determine how each state's delegates will be allocated to the presidential candidates. These delegates then attend the national party conventions to officially select the party's nominee for president. The rise of primaries and caucuses has extended the campaign season and increased costs, and they have also provided a stage for outsiders to challenge established party candidates.