Alaska and Massachusetts Vote on Electoral System Reforms

Voters in Alaska and Massachusetts face critical decisions on November 3 regarding the structure of their electoral systems. In Alaska, Ballot Measure 2 proposes the repeal of the state's current open primary and ranked-choice voting systems.

Jennifer Johnston, a former state representative, is campaigning for a no vote on the measure. She argues that open primaries allow lawmakers to vote their convictions and favor practical problem-solvers over fringe candidates. Johnston notes that the system has already successfully elected Republicans to the governorship and congressional seats while maintaining stability. Conversely, supporters of the repeal, including resident Ruth Ewig, argue the system was implemented through deceptive means and claim that opposition to the repeal is funded by out-of-state dark money groups.

Simultaneously, Massachusetts voters will decide on Ballot Question 3, which proposes replacing partisan primaries with a single, all-party primary where the top two candidates advance to the general election. Proponents, such as editor Adam N. Chiocco, suggest the change would increase accountability and competitiveness in a state with many uncontested races. Some advocates for the measure argue that this shift should be paired with ranked-choice voting to prevent candidates with low overall support from winning due to split party tickets.