Alaska voters reject ballot measure seeking to repeal open primaries and ranked voting system
The ballot measure, decided as part of the Nov. 3 election, marked the second time in two years that voters have rejected attempts to overturn the system and revert to partisan primaries and to general elections in which just one candidate can be selected.
Alaska voters have recently rejected a ballot measure aimed at repealing the state's system of open primaries and a ranked-choice voting system in general elections. This decision comes as the second time in two years that voters have voted against such measures and opted to return to partisan primaries and general elections with only one candidate able to secure a win.
The measure would have also repealed certain campaign disclosure rules. Alaska voters first adopted the new system in 2020, which was used for the first time in the 2022 elections. Open primaries and ranked voting are touted by supporters as promoting greater choice for voters, forcing candidates to build support from a wider range of constituencies, and moderating the state legislature, which has been governed by bipartisan coalitions in recent years.
Opponents of the changes, including former President Donald Trump, argue that the system is confusing. Repeal efforts were backed by significant donors such as Elon Musk. Ruth Hall, deputy campaign manager for the successful "No on 2" campaign, stated that the victory was decisive, highlighting Alaskans' desire for the freedom to select the best candidate regardless of party affiliation and the right to know who is financing political campaigns.
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