In partnership with Unite America, we’re advancing open primary reform in Iowa, Alaska, and Montana—because democracy works better when everyone can participate.
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Most Americans don’t realize that primary elections—where the real decisions often get made—are closed off to independent voters in much of the country. If you’re not registered with a major party, you may not have a say at all.
The result? Politicians who answer to party insiders, not to you.
Open primaries are simple: every eligible voter gets to participate, regardless of party registration. Candidates compete for the broadest possible coalition—not just the most partisan slice of their base.
The evidence is clear. Open primaries produce more competitive elections, more accountable elected officials, and more representative outcomes for all voters.
In partnership with Unite America, The Independent Center is focused on advancing open primary reform in three key states:
Alaska made history in 2020 by adopting a top-four open primary system—and we’re working to protect and build on that progress. Alaska’s model is proof that open primaries work, and it’s a blueprint for the rest of the nation.
Montana independents have long been shut out of the primary process. We’re supporting efforts to change that—giving Big Sky voters a real voice in who represents them, at every level of government.
Iowa’s first-in-the-nation caucus status gives it outsized influence on national politics. We’re engaged in Iowa to advance reforms that reflect the state’s large and growing independent electorate.
The Independent Center’s open primaries work is conducted in partnership with Unite America, a leading nonpartisan organization dedicated to electoral reform that puts voters—not parties—first. Together, we bring research, communications, and on-the-ground advocacy to move these reforms forward at the state level, where change actually happens.
Independent voters aren’t apathetic—they’re frustrated. They’re watching a system that was built to serve the parties, not the public. Open primaries are one of the most practical, proven reforms we can make right now to restore accountability and competition to American elections.
When primaries are open, politicians have to earn your vote. That’s how democracy is supposed to work.
