Del. Scott Lingamfelter, R-Prince William, wants voters to be able to register by political party.
He has proposed a bill that would add party affiliation to the information people are asked to provide when registering. People could say they are independents, as well.
The state party chairman of each political party would have to notify the State Board of Elections of the party rules governing who may participate in the party’s primaries.The bill is similar to ones introduced in 2012 by Del. James LeMunyon and Del. Timothy D Hugo, both Fairfax County Republicans. Their efforts died in the Privileges and Elections Committee, without a vote ever being taken.
Thumbs down. Why does this seem like the Republicans love the plan? Have you every heard a Democrat like this proposal? How about Independents? Something must be broken if the Republicans want to fix it.
I can’t see one reason to do it. I am sure someone will come along and set me straight. However, as an independent, I don’t want to register by party. I just want to vote. I feel I have as much right to vote in a primary for candidates as a party member. After all, I am going to be the one who has to live with their stupidity. I think the plan shuts out the independents. Let’s face it. Both parties need the independents. Shut us out and we might give both parties a real shock come election time.
“The state party chairman of each political party would have to notify the State Board of Elections of the party rules governing who may participate in the party’s primaries.” I think the answer lies here. I think the Republicans are afraid of primaries because there seems to be an increase in Independents. Just my opinion–don’t shoot the messenger.
Code of Virginia
§ 24.2-400
Persons entitled to register and vote.
Any person who is not registered to vote, but would otherwise be a qualified voter, is entitled to register to vote as provided in this chapter. Any person who is registered to vote and is a qualified voter shall be entitled to vote in the precinct where he resides.
The Virginia Republicans are in danger of putting themselves in the inextricable position of other Republicans around the country of fearing voters. A vibrant, successful political party will try to attract as many voters as possible. A frightened, weak and ever-diminishing party will try to keep voters away from as much of the political process as they can control
@Scout
Amen!
I wrote to my delegate (Rich Anderson) who is a smiling, slap you on the back, right down the party line Republican and asked him what Republicans are afraid of. No response and probably won’t get one. In all fairness, must disclose that Anderson did not support McDonnell’s cockamamy tax law. But other than that, he may give all the appearances of being just an ordinary nice guy but don’t be fooled by his demeanor.