System reduces voter choice

The “counterproductive idea” that Hans Dunshee would oppose Steve Hobbs for the Senate (Tuesday editorial) or that Mark Roe would oppose Jim Kenny for prosecutor, shows how the Top 2 primary reduces voter choice.

Party rules say that two Democrats can’t both run for the same partisan office at the same time, regardless of what party they say they prefer.

Next May, the Democratic precinct committee officers (PCOs) will vote to nominate the Democratic candidate in each partisan race. Precincts without PCOs will get zero votes, unless a PCO gets appointed.

The Top 2 system gives the PCOs more power than ever to select partisan candidates even before they file for office. Pick-a-party wasn’t great, but at least we heard from everyone.

Rick DeWitt

Chair, 44th LD Democrats

Mill Creek

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