A fair, well-functioning primary election system is necessary for a government that is responsive and accountable to all its citizens.
But in Rhode Island, under our current (primary) system, there’s a lack of voter participation – and a lack of genuine competition. Today, Rhode Island’s system:
- Produces “winners’ who get less than a majority, sometimes under 40% of the vote – or even less;
- Allows a tiny percentage of voters to select the candidates for the general election in November;
- Tends to produce uncompetitive general elections in November.
The People’s Primary initiative is a grass roots effort to change all that – and to reform the election process so our elected officials are more responsive to the will of the voters.
After all, that’s what democracy is all about.
Our Plan To Do Better for Rhode Island
Our plan is to engage the community in a conversation about Rhode Island’s primary election system. We’ll reach out to a diverse group of committed citizens, including activists, academics, businesspeople and others who have all come together to make real change on behalf of Rhode Islanders. We’ll talk about reforms that will make it easier for all Rhode Islanders to have their voices heard when it really counts, electing leaders who reflect their priorities and values.
From there, we’ll work to strengthen and improve the current primary model in Rhode Island.
It is our hope that a new, modern primary system will change the face of Rhode Island politics and set the stage for real progress in the Ocean State.
People's Primary 