The Massachusetts Forward Party is proud to support Ballot Question 3 for All-Party Primaries. The measure would replace separate party primaries with a single primary in which all candidates appear on the same ballot, and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election — regardless of party affiliation.
This initiative would increase competitiveness in a state ranked one of the least competitive by Ballotpedia, and where 3 out of 5 races currently go uncontested. A majority of Massachusetts races are settled in September primaries, when only 1 out of 5 people votes. Question 3 would make November elections more competitive, when 2 to 4 times as many people vote. It would also give unenrolled voters — who represent 2 out of 3 Massachusetts voters and nearly all Forward Party members — a voice in primary elections, without having to choose a single party ballot. This means more access for more citizens, which is simply more democratic.
This system is not new: it’s already how we run nonpartisan municipal elections across Massachusetts. It takes power out of the hands of parties and gives it back to the people — which is why both major parties vehemently oppose it. However, many prominent Democrats and Republicans have individually gone on the record to support it, including Deval Patrick, Charlie Baker, Kerry Healey, Diana DiZoglio, and former chair of the MassGOP Jennifer Nassour. We applaud their independence.
As a third party, we understand the concerns of Independents and other minor parties who value access to the general election ballot under the current system. However, we believe the opportunity to make it to November with a real shot — rather than a token protest vote — is a powerful step forward, and the advantages of this approach outweigh the downsides.
In an era of hyperpartisanship, All-Party Primaries would also likely incentivize candidates to adopt less extreme positions and reach beyond their traditional party bases to make their case to a broader electorate. We believe this is healthy for restoring decency, sanity, and common sense to politics.
The Massachusetts Forward Party believes elections should give voters meaningful choices and require candidates to earn their support. For these reasons, we wholeheartedly endorse Question 3 for All-Party Primaries.