Constitution; all elections for statewide office, state district office, member of the Legislature or local office shall be held at the same time as the presidential election.
Impact
The proposed change aims to simplify the electoral calendar, which has been fragmented in the past, leading to voter fatigue and lower participation rates during off-year elections. By consolidating the elections, proponents believe that it will enhance the visibility of state candidates and issues, thereby boosting overall voter turnout. However, the amendment specifically excludes municipal elections, meaning local governance elections will continue to operate independently of this schedule.
Summary
House Concurrent Resolution 16 proposes an amendment to the Mississippi Constitution of 1890 that mandates all elections for statewide offices, legislative memberships, and local offices to be held synchronously with the presidential elections, starting in the year 2028. This legislative move aims to standardize the timing of elections, thus providing a cohesive electoral schedule that could potentially increase voter engagement by aligning state and federal elections.
Contention
The bill has sparked discussions regarding its implications for local governance and voter engagement. Critics argue that merging all elections could diminish focus on state and local issues, overshadowed by the prominence of presidential campaigns. Supporters counter that increased turnout during such high-profile elections may benefit state and local candidates. Additionally, the amendment requires legislative action to implement changes concerning term extensions to avoid vacancies, which adds another layer of legislative complexity to the proposed changes.
Proposing a constitutional amendment for filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment, for partisan elections for all judicial offices, and for subsequent nonpartisan retention elections for all judicial offices.
Proposing a constitutional amendment for filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment, for partisan elections for all judicial offices, and for subsequent nonpartisan retention elections for all judicial offices.
Proposing a constitutional amendment for filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment, for partisan elections for all judicial offices, and for subsequent nonpartisan retention elections for all judicial offices.
Proposing a constitutional amendment for filling vacancies in appellate judicial offices by appointment, for partisan elections for all judicial offices, and for subsequent nonpartisan retention elections for all judicial offices.