Whether to close party primaries to only registered Democrats or Republicans is back as a battle in the Statehouse. Some — but not all — Republicans want it, while most Democrats don’t. Some are concerned that closing the primaries could have unforeseen consequences.

The League of Women Voters, in prepared testimony ahead of the upcoming hearings on the bill, argued that both proposals could potentially contribute to increased political polarization, which, in turn, could fuel lower voter turnout. 

Still, some are concerned that closing the primaries could have unforeseen consequences.

While political parties have a constitutional right to freedom of association, they argue, that right should not usurp the public’s ability to “cast a meaningful vote” for a candidate who would best represent their interests, whether that vote took place in November during a competitive general election race or during a heated Republican primary to represent a ruby red Statehouse district.

“In South Carolina, the primary is usually the last truly competitive opportunity for a voter to choose a candidate who represents their interests and concerns,” they argued.

Read the full article at the link above.