Selecting Presidential Nominees by National Primary: An Idea Whose Time Has Come?

Abstract

Despite many years of polls indicating overwhelming support for a national primary, it has never advanced far either in Congress or the parties. Opponents have claimed that it would eliminate the possibility of dark horse candidates building on early successes in small states, would dramatically increase the influence of money and mass media, weaken political parties and increase the possibility that a fringe candidate would win the nomination. This article finds that all these arguments apply at least as well to the current system. By simplifying the system, increasing voter turnout, making all votes equally meaningful and leading to a more representative electorate, a national primary would eliminate many of the serious flaws of the current system and therefore should be more seriously considered than it has been.

Recommended Citation

Altschuler, Bruce E. (2008) "Selecting Presidential Nominees by National Primary: An Idea Whose Time Has Come?," The Forum: Vol. 5 : Iss. 4, Article 5.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/forum/vol5/iss4/art5