Bernie Sanders

SHRED

(28,136 posts) Wed Apr 20, 2016, 11:52 AM Apr 2016

Closed vs Open Primaries

Here in California we have an open primary.

That is independents can vote in the Democratic Primary (not Republicans).

For this election cycle open primaries benefit Sanders.
Is there a down side to having open primaries rather than closed?

5 replies

= new reply since forum marked as read

Highlight:

Closed vs Open Primaries (Original Post) SHRED Apr 2016 OP

Remember when people used to run on an Independent ticket? Hiraeth Apr 2016 #1

In Arkansas we have open primaries, it does not matter how you are registered. You LiberalArkie Apr 2016 #2

Yes, but unfortunately, if you are registered "independent" and not "no party preference," MoonchildCA Apr 2016 #3

The AIP is a whole different story SHRED Apr 2016 #4

The AIP is currently the fastest growing party, simply due to confusion. MoonchildCA Apr 2016 #5

Hiraeth

(4,805 posts)

1. Remember when people used to run on an Independent ticket?

Reply to SHRED (Original post)

Wed Apr 20, 2016, 11:57 AM

Apr 2016

Where I live Independents in the Primary can choose an R ballot or a D ballot.

I chose the Democratic ballot and cast my vote for Bernie and other down ticket Dems.

LiberalArkie

(15,719 posts)

2. In Arkansas we have open primaries, it does not matter how you are registered. You

Reply to SHRED (Original post)

Wed Apr 20, 2016, 11:59 AM

Apr 2016

just tell the clerk which ballot you want.

I am afraid of how many people signed up with that American Independent party.

MoonchildCA

(1,301 posts)

3. Yes, but unfortunately, if you are registered "independent" and not "no party preference,"

Reply to SHRED (Original post)

Wed Apr 20, 2016, 12:31 PM

Apr 2016

...you can't vote in the Democratic Primary, and that seems to already be confusing new voters.

This is the latest story regarding that.

SHRED

(28,136 posts)

4. The AIP is a whole different story

Reply to MoonchildCA (Reply #3)

Wed Apr 20, 2016, 12:47 PM

Apr 2016

Far rightwingnutz party.

I see the confusion.
I think registering "no party preference" is what allows you in California. No affiliation.

Our screwed up system seems to be set up to confuse people and limit democracy.

MoonchildCA

(1,301 posts)

5. The AIP is currently the fastest growing party, simply due to confusion.

Reply to SHRED (Reply #4)

Wed Apr 20, 2016, 01:47 PM

Apr 2016

It's scary, really...

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