Alaska voters reject ballot measure seeking to repeal open primaries, ranked voting system

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Alaskans have voted against a proposal to abolish open primaries and replace the ranked choice voting system in general elections for the second time in two years. The failed ballot measure, which aimed to return the state to partisan primaries and a single candidate selection, also sought to repeal certain campaign disclosure rules.

Voters approved the current system in 2020, which was implemented for the first time in 2022. Advocates argue that open primaries and ranked voting broaden voter choices and force candidates to appeal to a wider range of supporters, ultimately leading to a more moderate state Legislature. Critics, including former President Donald Trump, contend that the system is confusing.

Major donors to the repeal campaign included Elon Musk. In open primaries, all candidates compete on a single ballot, and the top four finishers advance to a general election using ranked choice voting.