The current system makes it difficult for non-partisan candidates to get on the ballot and seek financing. Fundamental reforms are needed to open the electoral process to candidates who think and speak for themselves if the partisan divide that threatens true democracy can be eliminated.
Proposition 14 and Open Primaries represent the spirit of democracy and our republican form of government, which makes the partisan motivations of those in opposition to the change in rules, suspect.
Third parties provide hope for independent voters, but the two-party system fears candidates like the Libertarian Party’s Gary Johnson.
In 2012, independents will outnumber one of the major parties in 12 of the 53 Congressional districts, 10 of the 40 Senatorial districts, and 22 of the 80 Assembly districts.
Phil Huckelberry is the Co-chair of Green Party US Ballot Access Committee. IVN contributor AJ Segneri recently chatted with him about ballot access issues facing third parties.
Earlier this month, we took a look at the Green Party’s Jill Stein and Libertarian Gary Johnson. Independents who are thinking outside the two-party box may also consider the candidacy of former Salt Lake City Mayor Rocky Anderson.
Legitimacy is integral to voters, political candidates and organizations pursuing independent solutions to partisanship. Whether misplaced strategy, or concerted effort, all signs point to Americans Elect strengthening the two-party duopoly they claim to oppose.
The Open Elections/Open Government Act would alter the state’s constitution to create a top-two open primary system like that passed by California voters in 2010.
According to the most recent numbers released by the Secretary of State, 21.2% of California voters are now registered as having no party preference, a new high.
IVP co-chair and former state senator Steve Peace was recently interviewed by Brandi Powell, reporting for NBC San Diego, because of his admonition to the two parties to stop endorsing candidates so early in the primary process.
The Ninth Circuit of appeals today handed down a unanimous opinion upholding the Washington State Top Two system.
