Progressives like La Follette wanted voters to participate more directly in government. Since Andrew Jackson’s time, party leaders had picked candidates for local and state offices. Progressives called, instead, for primaries. In a primary, voters choose their party’s candidate for the general election. In 1903, Wisconsin was the first state to adopt a primary run by state government officials. By 1917, all but four states had done so.

Question

Progressives like La Follette wanted voters to participate more directly in government. Since Andrew Jackson’s time, party leaders had picked candidates for local and state offices. Progressives called, instead, for primaries. In a primary, voters choose their party’s candidate for the general election. In 1903, Wisconsin was the first state to adopt a primary run by state government officials. By 1917, all but four states had done so.

Based on this text, which statement best summarizes the reason many Progressives supported the idea of holding primaries before general elections?

A.
The primary guaranteed the best possible candidate for general elections.

B.
The primary strengthened the role of voters, rather than party leaders, in elections.

C.**
The primary prevented party leaders from taking a role in choosing candidates.

D.
The primary was conducted by the state government.

checking my answer! <3

Answer 1

B. The primary strengthened the role of voters, rather than party leaders, in elections.

Answer 2

B. The primary strengthened the role of voters, rather than party leaders, in elections.

"B. The primary strengthened the role of voters, rather than party leaders, in elections." is the correct answer.