What defines a primary election?

A primary election is specifically designed to select candidates to represent a political party in the upcoming general election. This process allows party members to vote for their preferred candidates, effectively narrowing down the field before the general election. The purpose of these elections is to ensure that each party has a chosen nominee who will run for office against candidates from other parties.

This definition highlights the role of primary elections in the larger electoral process, as they serve as a critical first step in determining which individuals will compete for a given office. The other options presented do not accurately capture the essence of what a primary election entails. Option A refers to final elections rather than the preliminary nature of primaries, option C suggests a broader, policy-focused election rather than candidate selection, and option D incorrectly limits the primary election process to just state governors. Thus, the characterization of a primary election as a means of selecting party nominees is correct and central to understanding its purpose within the electoral framework.