The NPR Politics Podcast AZ, OH Primaries: Independents Stranded, MAGA Senate Test
Mar 19, 2024
Ben Giles, KJZZ's political editor, sheds light on the controversies surrounding Arizona's presidential preference election, especially its exclusion of independent voters. He shares insights into the frustrations of independents and the ongoing calls for reform. The discussion shifts to the Ohio Senate primary, where candidate endorsements from Trump and the governor create a tug-of-war within the GOP, impacting Democratic incumbent Sherrod Brown's strategy. A closer look at abortion rights and the dynamics of negative campaigning reveals the intense competition fueling these pivotal elections.
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Independent Voters Excluded
- Arizona's presidential preference election (PPE) excludes independent voters, who comprise a third of registered voters.
- This impacts the election's outcome as only registered Democrats or Republicans can participate.
A Protest Vote
- Patricia Coughlin, an independent voter, temporarily registered as a Republican to vote against Donald Trump.
- After casting her ballot for Nikki Haley, she re-registered as an independent.
Impact of Closed Primaries
- Closed primaries empower the most active party members, often leading to more extreme candidates being selected.
- A large portion of self-identified independent voters consistently lean towards one party.