Alaska voters reject ballot measure to repeal open primaries and ranked-choice voting system

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Alaska voters have rejected the latest attempt to repeal the system of open primaries and ranked-choice voting in general elections.

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The ballot measure, decided as part of the Nov. 3 election, marks the second time in two years that voters have rejected attempts to overturn the system and return to partisan primaries and general elections in which only one candidate can be selected. The measure also would have repealed some campaign disclosure rules.

In 2020, voters narrowly adopted the new system, which was first used in 2022. Supporters of open primaries and ranked-choice voting say it gives voters more choices and forces candidates to build a broader coalition of support. They also say it has had a dampening effect on the state Legislature, which has been governed by bipartisan coalitions in recent years.

Opponents, including President Donald Trump, say it’s confusing. He has been denouncing the system for years. Elon Musk was among the donors who tried to repeal the law.

Ruth Hall, deputy campaign manager for No. 2, said in a statement that the victory was decisive.

“When Alaskans say we want the freedom to choose the best person for the job, regardless of party affiliation, and the right to know who is spending in our elections, we mean it,” Hall said.

A message seeking comment was left for a leader of the repeal effort.

In open primaries, all candidates in a race appear together on the ballot and the top four vote-getters, regardless of party, advance to the ranked-choice general election.

Major political parties and campaigns have sometimes pressured lower-ranking candidates in primaries to drop out of the general election in hopes of creating a better path for higher-profile candidates.