What does it mean when candidates “test the waters” during the invisible primary?

When candidates “test the waters” during the invisible primary, they are engaging in a preliminary phase where they assess the viability of their candidacy without formally declaring their intent to run. This stage is critical for raising money and building their campaign organizations.

Candidates use this time to gauge public interest and support for their potential candidacy, which often involves meeting with party insiders, conducting polls, and participating in fundraising activities. By doing so, they can determine whether they have enough backing and resources to proceed with an official campaign. This aspect of the invisible primary is crucial, as it sets the stage for the candidate’s ability to effectively compete in the primary elections.

The other choices pertain to different aspects of the electoral process but do not accurately capture the essence of what “testing the waters” entails. For instance, while candidates do eventually begin official campaigns, that activity occurs after they have completed their preliminary assessments. Starting public debates and selecting running mates are also actions that take place later in the campaign process, well after the invisible primary phase has concluded.