Hoosiers aren’t bound by a political party when it comes to primaries, but that could change under a bill offered by Republican Rep. Michelle Davis.
The legislation is clearly aimed at further eliminating Democratic influence in a state where redistricting and straight party voting have helped Republicans build a supermajority. If it becomes a law, the bill would also discourage voter turnout, which appears to be a part of the plan.
Open primaries aren’t hurting Republicans. Last November was the latest example of a trend of GOP dominance in Indiana, with Republicans maintaining their stronghold on the legislature, winning the governor’s race and re-electing Todd Rokita as attorney general. President-elect Donald Trump easily won the state, and Republicans also carried many local level races.
While Democrats may maintain hope that the trend will one day be reversed, many also see the writing on the wall. They know if they want a say in who represents them, voting in the Republican primary in Indiana is the best way. Democrats’ chances at winning many seats are so low that some races are uncontested in the general election. Even if a Democrat is on the ballot, it’s unlikely they would win a state or federal race in Indiana. The GOP primary truly is where the election is decided in the vast majority of cases.
Due to their popularity in Indiana, Republicans also typically have more competitive primaries, with more than one candidate seeking a seat. That provides another reason why open primaries are attractive to Democrats, independents and others — it gives them a chance to cast a meaningful ballot.
If primaries are closed, fewer people will vote. Revamping the system and requiring county clerks to track party registrations would also undoubtedly be both a headache and an added administrative expense. There would need to be a massive education effort to let voters know of the change ahead of the next primary, and that would come with a cost.
Open primaries encourage voter turnout and bipartisanship. Once a candidate wins office, they represent everyone — not just those in the same political party. Voters shouldn’t be limited by party affiliation at a time of one-party rule in Indiana.