ALBANY, N.Y. — Some New York State lawmakers are considering changes to future primary elections, including a plan for an open primary system with no party restrictions for voters.
The proposed reform would allow voters to participate in primaries regardless of party affiliation, similar to the system used in Los Angeles. Supporters say it could boost voter turnout.
Currently, voters must be registered with a political party to cats a ballot in primary elections. As of this February, over 3.4 million New Yorkers aren’t registered with a political party, and cannot participate in primary elections.
Critics argue the changes could reduce party control over candidate selection. So far, there is no state Senate companion bill, but the issue could come up in the next legislative session.
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