From The Boston Globe · · 2m
Does the all-party primary make sense? Massachusetts voters weigh reform
Massachusetts voters debate whether all-party primaries would boost democracy or harm small parties.
In brief
Massachusetts voters debate whether all-party primaries would boost democracy or harm small parties. Massachusetts voters will decide if replacing party primaries with a single contest sending top two finishers to general election improves democracy or weakens minor parties. Originally reported by The Boston Globe.
Question 3: All-party primary reform
Next month, Massachusetts voters will consider Question 3, which would replace current party primaries with a single contest sending top two finishers to general election.
Voters debate reform
This year’s ballot includes nine issues, but Question 3 has generated more vigorous debate than any other.
For: Democratic reform
Bob Massie, a progressive Democrat with three statewide campaigns, supports Question 3 to fix broken political system.
Current system flaws
Only 22.7 percent voted in Massachusetts primary this year, and 70 percent of house seats face no general election opponent.
Democrat membership decline
Two-thirds of voters are officially unenrolled, and registered Democrats stand at about 24 percent.
All-party benefits
All-party primaries would give younger activists reason to enter politics and strengthen party energy.
Opponents fear two Republicans
Some Democratic opponents fear two Republicans advancing in general election under all-party system.
Minor parties at risk
California and Washington have seen minor parties disappear after top-two primaries.
Libertarian party impact
Libertarian Party will lose pathway to presidential ballot in 2028 if Question 3 passes.
Competitive races
Since 2014, more than half of Massachusetts races have had just one candidate.
Yes on 3 campaign
Yes on 3 campaign aims to upgrade democracy by replacing party primaries with all-party contest.
California experience
After California changed to all-party primaries, competition increased substantially in November elections.
Opposition concerns
Opponents worry about increased polarization and fragmented voter bases.
Economic challenges
Massachusetts faces job loss and business decline since pandemic, with universities moving to sunbelt states.
Political reform needed
Massachusetts needs political culture that recognizes competition for talent and investment.
What happens next
Massachusetts voters will decide whether all-party primaries improve democracy or harm minor parties.
The one thing
Massachusetts voters will decide if replacing party primaries with a single contest sending top two finishers to general election improves democracy or weakens minor parties.
