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Sunday, Sep. 13, 2020

Do both major parties oppose a Florida push for ‘top-two’ primaries?

Samuel Henning, Gigafact Foundry
yes

Both major parties are urging Floridians to vote against a constitutional amendment that would replace party primaries with a top-two open primary election for state legislators and officials. Under this model, candidates appear on the same ballot regardless of party, and the two with the most votes advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.

Proponents say the change will allow all voters to participate in primary elections, which can be more competitive than the general election. In legislative districts where one party dominates, the primary result is often decisive.

The major parties argue that the amendment is unnecessarily confusing and could reduce voter choice. Several Black legislators have warned that the amendment would dilute the votes of Black citizens and reduce their representation in the state's government.

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