Hoosier State Today

A legislative proposal in Indiana, Senate Bill 201, could significantly impact the state's voting landscape by closing its primaries to independent voters. Common Cause Indiana has voiced strong opposition to this bill, urging the Indiana General Assembly to reject it.

Julia Vaughn, Executive Director of Common Cause Indiana, emphasized the importance of inclusive voting processes. "All voters deserve a say in who represents them and in many local elections, the best opportunity to have that say is in primaries. Legislators must put their people above partisan interests and leave primaries open for all voters, Republican, Democrat and independent voters," she stated.

Currently, Indiana's primary elections are open to unaffiliated or independent voters. More than 25 percent of registered voters in the state identify as independents. This group has been growing as more individuals choose this registration status.

The potential closure of primaries comes at a time when primary election turnout is already low. Primaries have gained importance due to partisan gerrymandering, making voter participation crucial. Excluding over a quarter of eligible voters from these elections raises concerns about democratic representation.