With more than half of Alabama voters identifying as Republican, the future of who runs our state and congressional offices is more often than not decided during the primary. Currently, we are one of 15 states that allow for an open primary where a voter can choose either a Republican or Democratic ballot. It’s not uncommon for a voter to cross party lines during the primary perhaps feeling that may be the only way to impact who wins an election if there is no chance for their party candidate to win in November. Next year that option may come to an end.The Alabama Republican Party has voted to close their primary so only those who are registered Republicans could vote on a Republican ballot. Lawmakers will be asked to pass the legislation in the spring. With the political division and rhetoric over the last few years, many voters are seeking middle ground and turning independent. A Gallup poll from July shows that 41% of the country now identifies as independent. In Alabama, the most recent stats are from 2014 and show 13%. So, it begs the question: Where will independents be allowed to cast their vote after next year? At a time when our political system is so divided and so extreme, let’s hope lawmakers give serious consideration to a more inclusive approach that encourages voting from all Alabamians.
With more than half of Alabama voters identifying as Republican, the future of who runs our state and congressional offices is more often than not decided during the primary.
Currently, we are one of 15 states that allow for an open primary where a voter can choose either a Republican or Democratic ballot. It’s not uncommon for a voter to cross party lines during the primary perhaps feeling that may be the only way to impact who wins an election if there is no chance for their party candidate to win in November. Next year that option may come to an end.
The Alabama Republican Party has voted to close their primary so only those who are registered Republicans could vote on a Republican ballot. Lawmakers will be asked to pass the legislation in the spring. With the political division and rhetoric over the last few years, many voters are seeking middle ground and turning independent.
A Gallup poll from July shows that 41% of the country now identifies as independent. In Alabama, the most recent stats are from 2014 and show 13%.
So, it begs the question: Where will independents be allowed to cast their vote after next year?
At a time when our political system is so divided and so extreme, let’s hope lawmakers give serious consideration to a more inclusive approach that encourages voting from all Alabamians.
