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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2025 - 2026
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | December 3, 2024 09:46 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Jared G. Solomon and Rep. Malcolm Kenyatta, Rep. Christopher M. Rabb |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Open Primaries |
| “Unaffiliated” is now the fastest-growing political designation in our Commonwealth. More than 1.3 million Pennsylvanians are not affiliated with either of the two major political parties, including many veterans and younger voters. While these independent voters contribute to our tax base and fund our electoral system, they are excluded from participating in primary elections. This constitutes taxation without representation, and it must change. Our proposed legislation would allow unaffiliated voters to participate in primary elections, ensuring they have a full and equal voice in the democratic process. An open primary system fosters greater civic engagement, encourages new ideas, and strengthens our democracy. Currently, thirty states afford their voters with a greater stake in primary elections than Pennsylvania does. It is time for Pennsylvania to extend the same opportunity and allow independent voters to express their preferences for primary candidates in local, state, and federal elections. No individual should be treated as a second-class citizen or have their constitutional right to vote undermined by state law. Please join us in co-sponsoring this important legislation. |