Final answer:
A caucus is a political meeting where party members choose a nominee through discussions and votes, with the majority-supported candidate receiving delegates for that district or precinct. The correct option is C.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main purpose of a political meeting of party members to choose a nominee through debate is known as a caucus. In a caucus, party members gather to discuss and debate the merits of various candidates. They then vote for their preferred candidate, and the one with the majority of support receives the delegates for that district or precinct.
The most notable caucus is the Iowa Caucus, which typically occurs in early February during a presidential election year. Caucuses, while less common than primaries, play a significant role in the nomination process for candidate selection, especially in states like Alaska, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Iowa, and Nevada.
In contrast to primaries, caucuses are less formal and are often criticized for having lower turnout and less transparent processes. However, they are seen as fostering in-depth discussion and community involvement among party members. The delegates selected through the caucus process then represent their local preferences at state or national party conventions.