Unleashing Democracy: Why Nevada Needs Open Primaries and Ranked-Choice Voting

In the realm of political power, the real game-changer often comes from the shadows, not the spotlight. William Magear “Boss” Tweed knew this well. He famously declared, “I don’t care who does the electing, so long as I get to do the nominating.” This statement underscores a crucial truth: genuine influence lies in the nomination process rather than the voting itself. In Nevada, a state rich in diversity and potential, the closed primary system has perpetuated a cycle reminiscent of Tweed's era, where a select few dictate the candidates. It’s time for Nevada to reclaim its democracy.

The Problem with Closed Primaries

Over two decades of political campaigning have unveiled the stark limitations of Nevada's closed primary system. Here’s why it’s problematic:

• Exclusionary Practices: Nearly 1 million Nevadans registered as nonpartisan or with minor parties are barred from participating in taxpayer-funded primaries, effectively silencing 40% of the electorate.
• Declining Voter Participation: Voter turnout in primaries is on a downward spiral, particularly among younger voters, dropping from 30% in 2020 to just 19% in the last election.
• Skewed Outcomes: Candidates often leapfrog into general elections with support from only a small fraction of registered voters, undermining the democratic process.

Question 3: A Path Toward Inclusion

Fortunately, change is on the horizon with Question 3, a citizen-initiated ballot measure passed in 2022. This initiative aims to abolish closed primaries and introduce ranked-choice voting (RCV), a system designed to enhance voter engagement and representation.

Here’s how it works:

• In an open primary, all voters can choose candidates from any party for each office.
• The top five candidates, regardless of party affiliation, advance to the general election.

Adopting RCV means voters can rank their preferences, ensuring that the elected candidates truly reflect the will of the people. If a majority of Nevadans opt for this change in the upcoming election, it will become law by 2026.

The Broader Impact of RCV

Ranked-choice voting is not an untested concept. It has already been successfully implemented in over 60 cities and in states like Alaska and Maine. Here are some key benefits:

• Diverse Representation: RCV encourages candidates to appeal to a broader audience rather than catering to the extremes of party ideology.
• Voter Satisfaction: An impressive 85% of Alaskan voters found RCV straightforward and effective after their first use in 2022.
• Reduction of Polarization: By allowing voters to express multiple preferences, RCV can lead to less extreme candidates and more moderate governance.

Facing Opposition

As with any significant change, resistance is expected. Critics will likely argue that RCV is too complex for some voters. However, this perspective often underestimates the intelligence of the electorate. As Matthew Germer from the R Street Institute emphasized, “The data shows that voters are smart when you put an RCV ballot in front of them.”

While some may fear losing power, the growing support for RCV spans party lines, attracting a coalition of unlikely allies from both ends of the political spectrum.

The Call for Action

Nevada has a rich history of progressive reforms. From legalizing divorce in 1861 to protecting women's rights, the state has consistently pushed boundaries. Now, it’s time to step forward once more. By supporting Question 3, we can ensure that every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, has a voice in choosing candidates with the broadest appeal.

Let’s not allow a few to determine who gets to run for office. Instead, let’s empower the people to reclaim their right to nominate. The future of Nevada’s democracy is at stake!

What do you think?

• Should Nevada adopt open primaries and ranked-choice voting?
• Do you believe that the current closed primary system undermines democracy?
• How do you think RCV would change the political