Open Primary Ballot Question Gathering Signatures

(Pierre, SD) — A group is gathering signatures for a petition to put a constitutional amendment ballot question on the 2024 general election ballot. The question would give voters the choice of whether or not to open primary races to all voters, regardless of party affiliation. Primaries are currently closed, with only registered Democrats and Republicans able to vote in primary races for candidates in their own party. Supporters say process would make the primaries more accessible to independent voters.