Thanks to Richard Winger of Ballot Access News for this post.
Three Republican members of the Michigan State House have introduced HB 5956, which would convert Michigan primaries from open to closed. The sponsors are Ray Franz of Onekama, Greg MacMaster of Kewadin, and Bob Genetski of Allegan County.
The bill is in the 2013-2014 legislative session, so there is very little time left for this bill to advance. Also MacMaster was defeated in the Republican primary this year, and Genetski did not run for re-election, so those two won’t be in the 2015-2016 session.
Franz and MacMaster also introduced HB 5955, which would provide that major parties nominate for Governor and state legislature by party conventions instead of by direct primary. Already, major parties in Michigan nominate some of the lesser statewide offices by party conventions instead of by primary.
“One of the first things lawmakers are taught is to be open to listening to constituents’ concerns for potential state government reforms that can help make Michigan better,” said MacMaster, R-Kewadin. “Along with that, of course, is considering your own experiences for possible policy change. I strongly believe based on what I went through the past several months that there are valid and worthwhile reasons for improving our election process.
“In my opinion, because of crossover voting, the true views and values of Republicans in the 37th District were not reflected accurately,” MacMaster said.
HBs 5955 and 5956 have been assigned to the House Committee on Elections and Ethics for consideration.
NYC Wins When Everyone Can Vote!
Michael H. Drucker
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