Primary elections, or direct primary - These elections narrow the field. Candidates within the same political party run against one another, and voters nominate the candidates that will represent their party in an upcoming general election, local election, or by-election.
General elections - These elections determine the winner(s). All or most members of a political body are chosen. In the U.S., general elections typically involve two opposing parties, they generally occur every two to six years, and the elected typically serves a four-year term. General elections take place at federal, state, and local levels.
Federal elections - These include national-level presidential and congressional elections (Senate and House of Representatives).
State elections - Officials such as Governor and Attorney General are elected at the state level.
Municipal elections, or local elections - Office-holders in local government, such as mayors and school board members are chosen locally.
By-election, or special election - Used to fill an office that has become vacant between general elections.
Tribal elections - Tribal governments vary widely from one to another. Officials are usually chosen through elections by tribal members. They can be held in conjunction with other elections, but are often independent, under a given tribe's election office.
State Primary Election Types - (NCSL)
The laws governing state primaries are complex and nuanced to say the least, and state primary laws have been a cause of confusion among voters and election administrators alike. The manner in which party primary elections are conducted varies widely from state to state. Primaries can be categorized as either closed, partially closed, partially open, open to unaffiliated voters, open or top-two.