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July 15, 2010 An effort to reform primary voting in Illinois has many people feeling optimistic about real changes in the political process. One of these people is State Senate candidate John Mulroe (D – Chicago), who says the open primary system could change the tone of future elections for the better. “In the neighborhood where I grew up, people didn’t always feel like they had a choice about which party they could vote for.” Mulroe said. “Partisan politics prevent us from tackling the most important issues in Illinois right now, and I think this change will make politicians focus on the issues, because it will help take partisan politics out of the equation.” In the past, voters selected either a Democratic or Republican ballot, and the law required you to do so “in a loud and distinct voice.” The new procedure, if approved by lawmakers, will allow voters to choose which ballot to fill out confidentially and vote for the party of their choice. Mulroe did express reservations about the timing of Governor Quinn’s decision to use special veto powers to amend this bill. Despite the positive impact the bill might have on campaigns in the future, it comes at a time when unemployment is still high and people are growing frustrated with the legislature. “I don’t see how this bill creates jobs that cannot be outsourced or helps people pay their bills,” he added. “I support the merits of an open primary, but I don’t think it should be this high on our list of priorities in Illinois. People are struggling right now, so my number one priority is creating long-lasting jobs in this community.” |
