• FuglyDuck@lemmy.world
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      1 year ago

      It’s an election called to fill one specific post.

      For example, if finestien or mcconnel were to step down, their respective states would temporarily appoint a person to fill the gap while a special election was called.

      This is apposed to the general election that has “everything” on it.

    • spaceghoti@lemmy.oneOP
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      1 year ago

      When it happens outside the normal election period (usually determined by state or county law) because a vacancy needed to be filled or a referendum was called.