Which of the following best describes a general election?

A general election is best described as an election where voters choose between candidates from different parties. This type of election typically takes place after primary elections, where candidates from the same political party compete to secure their party's nomination. In a general election, the focus is on the broader electorate, allowing voters to select their preferred candidate from among the nominees of various political parties, thus facilitating a choice based on party platforms and individual candidate policies.

The nature of general elections also ensures that issues and candidates from multiple parties are brought into the public discourse, providing voters with a wider range of options and encouraging democratic participation. Choices that refer to nominating candidates or selecting local representatives are more limited in scope and do not capture the full essence of what a general election involves.