Has it been four years already? It’s hard to believe that a presidential election is once again underway. It seems like just yesterday a young Barack Obama was being inaugurated. Now a grayer man takes to the campaign trail again, hoping to secure reelection. But he isn’t unopposed.

   A bevy of challengers has stood up to vie for the chance to be the Republican candidate. And on January 31, 2012 Florida held its closed primary. Now what exactly is a primary and why does it matter? The primary system is composed of a series of state elections to whittle down the candidates running for the presidency, until one person is left standing to represent their respective party in the general election. After a long summer of debating and politicking, the candidates took the fight to the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire, and now only four candidates remain. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney is at the head of the pack after a win in New Hampshire under his belt and a great deal of forward momentum.

   Former speaker of the house Newt Gingrich, isn’t far behind though, with a series of strong debate performances inching him towards the top spot.  Rounding out the top three is Ron Paul of Texas who makes up his lack of founding with a fervent fan base and an unshakable tenacity, while former U.S senator Rick Santorum is trying to capitalize on an unexpected surge coming out of Iowa.

   Only registered Republicans can vote in the Florida primary, except for a special exception being made for the residents of Temple Terrace. They have a referendum on the ballot that can be voted on by anyone, regardless of party affiliation. There are approximately 231,984 registered Republican voters in Hillsborough County, and voter turn out is expected to be high. Early voting began on January 15th and you have until the Saturday before the election to cast your early ballot.