Another look at initiative 872: "Top two"
By Sandy Harold and Mike Kaill
posted 10/20/04
This note is a condensed version of the League of Women Voters of Washington (LWVWA) "Talking Points" on the Leagues opposition to I-872.
Background
Washington's system of primary voting was changed, irrevocably, in 2004. Washington now has a primary ballot for each major political party. Voters must choose only candidates from within the political party ballot selected. Nonpartisan offices and ballot measures appear separately. The procedures for the general election are the same as before.
LWVWA objections to I-872
- Choices in the general election are sharply reduced. Over a third of the statewide and congressional candidates who appeared on the general election ballot in 2000 would have been eliminated if I-872 had been the law.
- Third parties, minor parties and independents will be eliminated from the general election ballot. Insulating the top two political parties from competition is a bad idea. Third party, minor party and independent candidates are an important part of government's checks and balances.
- Single-party general elections will result. If the top two vote-getters are from the same party, many voters will lose the chance to vote for candidate that represents their philosophy. In one third of the Governor races in the last 25 years, I-872 would have had candidates from the same party. John Spellman, elected in 1980, would not have appeared on the November ballot.
- A special interest group, largely funded by insurance company money spent $450,000 to get signatures for I-872. (Source: Secretary of State's website). Special interests should not control our elections.
- Louisiana is the only state with top-two, and Louisiana's election officials urge Washingtonians not to adopt this system.
For more information: No on I-872 Campaign visit www.no872.org or call 206-652-8904
|
