Why primaries and local party selection matter

The discussion urges eligible voters to participate without prescribing a candidate. In the United States, primary elections determine which figures appear under each party label, so skipping them helps produce the later choice voters may dislike. British local party hustings perform a related selection function, with members voting and non-members still able to attend and influence debate. The British recommendation is to join the party closest to one's views, then work to move it instead of waiting for a perfect match. Political participation begins well before a national general election.