What is the first step in the nomination campaign process called?

The first step in the nomination campaign process is referred to as the "invisible primary." This phase occurs before the official primary elections and is characterized by candidates seeking to establish their viability and build support among party leaders, donors, and key influencers. During the invisible primary, potential candidates often engage in fundraising, participate in debates, and make appearances to gain media attention and solidify their base.

It's crucial to understand that this phase sets the groundwork for a candidate's eventual decision to run and how they will perform in the actual primaries. Candidates aim to gauge their support and demonstrate their electability in a crowded field, which is why this phase is termed "invisible" – much of the activity happens behind the scenes and away from the public eye. This early engagement is significant for shaping perceptions and can influence the outcomes of the official primary elections later on.