The idea behind moving presidential primaries -- New Jersey's included -- earlier in the nominating process was to give voters a real voice. And it's worked spectacularly, something party bosses could come to rue.

New Jersey's Feb. 5 primary saw more than 1.5 million voters participate -- the largest turnout in 67 years. In nearly all of the 38 states that have held primaries, caucuses or conven tions so far, turnout has reflected an excitement not witnessed in years.

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