Louisiana 2010 Regular Session

Louisiana Senate Bill SB690

Introduced
4/6/10  
Refer
4/6/10  

Caption

Allows an independent voter to vote in either the Democratic or Republican congressional primary. (gov sig)

Impact

The implementation of SB690 would amend existing state law, which currently upholds a closed primary system where voters can only participate in the primaries of the party they are registered with. The bill's passing would lead to a notable shift towards a more inclusive electoral system, directly impacting the composition and outcome of primary elections by potentially allowing independent voters to nominate candidates whom they feel represent their views. This change could alter the political landscape in Louisiana, impacting subsequent general elections depending on which candidates emerge from the primaries.

Summary

Senate Bill 690 seeks to reform the voting process for congressional primary elections in Louisiana by allowing independent voters, those unaffiliated with any political party, to vote in either the Democratic or Republican primary elections. The motivation behind this legislation is to enhance voter participation by providing independent voters the opportunity to have a say in the primary elections, which has traditionally been limited to registered party members. This change aims to increase engagement in the electoral process among those who do not wish to affiliate with a political party while still allowing political parties to determine their own participation parameters in primaries.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB690 appears to be mixed. Proponents of the bill argue that it would be a progressive move towards inclusivity and an encouragement for wider voter participation, while critics, particularly from party insiders, might view it as a threat to the integrity of party primaries. The reaction is likely rooted in concerns that independent voters may not adhere to the usual party lines and could sway elections in unforeseen directions. Thus, this legislative effort presents a conflict between the desire for broader democracy and the traditional party control of primary processes.

Contention

Key points of contention regarding SB690 involve the balance between maintaining party integrity and encouraging voter participation. There is concern among party leaders about the implications of allowing independent voters to influence the nomination process, leading to fears about candidate selection and party cohesion. Additionally, as political parties retain the ability to set rules for their primaries, there might be ongoing debates about the conditions under which independent voters can participate, highlighting a potential source of friction within the political landscape of Louisiana.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

LA SB235

Provides for a closed party primary system for congressional elections. (gov sig) (OR +$5,500,000 GF EX See Note)

LA SB796

Provides for an open primary system of elections for congressional offices. (1/1/11) (RE SEE FISC NOTE GF EX See Note)

LA HB292

Provides for an open primary system of elections for congressional offices (EGF SEE FISC NOTE GF EX)

LA SB608

Provides relative to major recognized political parties in congressional elections. (1/1/11)

LA B25-1075

Initiative 83 - Ranked Choice Voting and Open the Primary Elections to Independent Voters Act of 2024

LA S185

Allows voter to vote in any political party primary by changing party affiliation at polling place on primary election day; allows mail-in voter to complete any political primary ballot.

LA S267

Allows voter to vote in any political party primary by changing party affiliation at polling place on primary election day; allows mail-in voter to complete any political primary ballot.

LA A3964

Allows voter to vote in any political party primary by changing party affiliation at polling place on primary election day; allows mail-in voter to complete any political primary ballot.

LA SB374

Allowing a voter to declare or change such voter's political party or voter affiliation on the day of a primary election.

LA SB2656

United States congressional primaries; move to take place in March.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.