Primary concern (5)
(Other definitions for smear that I've seen before include "Calumniate" , "Sully" , "Bedaub with oily stuff - defame" , "Greasy or sticky mark" , "Slander - tissue sample used for testing" .)
'primary concern' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)
This is all the clue.
(Other definitions for votes that I've seen before include "Elects by ballot" , "these should get cast" , "often indicated by hands" , "Choices expressed by electorate" , "Proposes" .)