Question #1: We love talking about the need to eliminate closed primaries! Right now, it’s not a system that works for everyone. According to the Pennsylvania Department of State, nearly 1.1 million voters are registered as unaffiliated with a political party or Independent. This segment of the state’s electorate has been increasing for years - and is now the fastest growing segment of voters - consistent with a national trend of voters identifying as independents. But in Pennsylvania, these voters are prevented from participating in the local, state and federal primaries that are likely the most important elections in their communities.

New legislation (Senate Bill 690) introduced in the PA General Assembly would allow the 1.1 million independent and unaffiliated voters shut out of primary elections in Pennsylvania to choose a Democratic or Republican ballot. We support this legislation and urge members of both parties to sign on.

We are part of a coalition working towards a solution, and you can join! Learn more at ballotpa.org.

Question #2: Regardless of who wins the Governorship, we are going to be vigilant in our policy advocacy – specifically to make sure that best practices are followed for voter role maintenance.