OPINION: Opening primaries to independent voters improves inclusivity and representation

I am a senior at the University of New Mexico, and I am honored to serve as the president of UNM College Democrats. Our organization represents a vibrant and diverse spectrum of progressive-minded students where amongst the likes of us is a handful of independent voters, myself included. I am proud to work with a group of students who are committed to civic engagement and meaningful political discourse, even when inevitable disagreements arise. Nonetheless the one thing we can all agree on is the importance of open primaries.

Primary elections are an essential part of the electoral process. Often overlooked, but in the long run, they can determine the outcome of our elections. There was a time in American history when primaries didn’t exist, and state delegates and/or the caucus would choose their candidates for president with no voter input. But with the evolution of American politics, the 1968 Democratic National Convention introduced to us what would become primary elections. When put into that perspective, we have come a long way. It is not only a constitutional right, but an integral process that was designed with the intention of representing our state. Which we have failed to do in recent years.

Excluding independent voters not only weakens our elections, it silences voters. In the United States, independent voters truly are the backbone of our system. In New Mexico, however, independents have long had to relinquish their lack of partisanship and register with a party, simply so they can participate in primaries. But this goes beyond those who call themselves independents. More than 50% of Americans do not identify with the party they vote under. Independents, like myself, may think independently but until recently our state did not allow us the right to vote like it.

Like many independents, I have voted for candidates on both sides of the aisle. This reform recognizes that thoughtful voters don’t always fit into one ideological box, and they shouldn’t be forced to choose one just to participate. By opening our primaries, New Mexico is embracing a system that encourages deeper engagement, broader participation and more responsive leadership. I am a firm believer that all Americans should have the autonomy to vote for either candidate. Our current two-party system offers no sense of comfort and security in voting. Independent voting is, at its core, about voting for the candidate that best aligns with your values and initiatives, rather than the party. There is no threat to either party in allowing independents to vote. Opening the primaries in New Mexico is a crucial step in the right direction. As the people in this great nation evolve and change, so should our institutions to better reflect the modern-day American.

I am excited to see how opening the primaries will reshape voter participation and engagement in upcoming elections, especially in New Mexico. With independent voters now able to take the lead in shaping outcomes, we move closer to a fairer, open and representative democracy. It brings me great joy to know I now live in a state that will ensure all elections are fair and open to every type of voter. As I have always said, there is no harm in inclusivity and representation.