What is an election called where voters can select any candidate for an elected office?

A general election is the process through which voters select candidates for various elected offices, often including those for federal, state, and local positions. In a general election, registered voters have the opportunity to choose among candidates from various parties and those running as independents. This type of election typically occurs after primary elections, where political parties determine their nominees.

During a general election, the choices are open to all qualified voters, allowing them to cast their ballots for any candidate on the ballot, reflecting the democratic principle of voter choice in a competitive environment. This contrasts with other types of elections, such as primary elections, which are limited to party members selecting their candidates for the general election.