Presidential primary elections can only be delayed for a limited time.

[MineralMan]

8. Thanks for that schedule.

I rarely look closely at election calendars or processes in any but my own state.

Apparently, every state has its own schedule and process. If I had more time, I'd go and check that out.

In Minnesota, we used to hold caucuses for the purpose of allocating presidential convention delegates. This year, we had a primary, with only the presidential office appearing on it. We will also have a primary election for state and other offices later this year.

The reason for the separate primary or caucuses for presidential candidates is due to the need to allocate delegates for party conventions, which traditionally have taken place in July, it seems. It's a complicated, but crucial, step along the way to the general election in November.