Initiative Would Redesign Arizona Primary

A group led by former Phoenix Mayor Paul Johnson has proposed a major change in Arizona’s election system. They’ve launched a ballot measure campaign that would ask voters to replace separate party primaries with a single ballot.

Under the propsal the two candidates who receive the most votes in the single primary –regardless of political party—would advance to the general election.
KTAR.com reports that the change would apply to all elections except those that elect candidaes on a nonpartisan basis. It would also not apply to the election of president or vice-president.

Supporters say their proposal would promote open government and encourage the election of candidates who will work together for the good of the state. Proponents of top-two primaries also say this would help elect more moderate candidates from the major parties while giving independents an equal voice. Opponents say the proposed system would reduce ballot access for third-party candidates and could reduce voter choice if the only two candidates for an office are from the same party.

Governor Brewer and the Arizona Republican Party have voiced opposition to the proposal.