Local opinion: Let's make our elections fair by opening primaries

As Americans, we believe in fairness, inclusivity and the idea that every voice should be heard in our democracy. These values are not unique to Democrats like us — they are shared by many Republicans and Independents as well. This is why we are calling on all Arizonans, regardless of party affiliation, to support Proposition 140, the citizen-led initiative to make our elections fair by opening Arizona’s primaries to all voters and leveling the playing field for all candidates. This reform is not just about aligning with democratic principles. It is about ensuring our political process remains vibrant, representative, and capable of addressing the needs of all Arizonans.

Under Arizona’s current semi-closed primary system for county, statewide and federal offices more than one-third of voters — those who identify as Independents or unaffiliated — face barriers to participate. Less than 10% of unaffiliated voters participate in primary elections, leaving a significant portion of our electorate out of the candidate selection process. Such low voter turnout in primaries does not just hurt unaffiliated voters — it limits both Democrats and Republicans from building broader coalitions and advancing policies that move Arizona forward. Whether it is water policy, reproductive rights, healthcare, education, public safety, or economic growth today’s challenges demand broad consensus and cooperation.

Prop 140 would create one primary where all candidates are listed on a single ballot and all voters have equal access to participate. This change will promote meaningful dialogue between Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike, adding much-needed perspective, diversity, and collaboration to the political process. A yes vote for Prop 140 is a vote to strengthen our democracy.

Prop 140 ensures the same rules apply to all candidates, encouraging greater participation, more competition and providing voters with better choices. This consistency will help the best candidates, those who represent a broad base, rise to the top.

With Prop 140, elected officials will no longer have to fear being “primaried” for working across the aisle. Instead, they will be able to focus on finding solutions that benefit all Arizonans. Our democracy was built on compromise, and this reform will dismantle partisan gridlock, foster an environment where collaboration is possible, and government works more effectively for everyone.

Prop 140 is about giving power back to the people. It is about ensuring that every voter, regardless of party affiliation, can have a role in shaping the future of Arizona. It is about building a system where the best candidates—those who can unite us and move us forward—are the ones who make it to the general election. That is a vision that all Arizonans, Democrats, Republicans, and Independents alike, should be proud to support.

In a state as diverse as Arizona, we have the opportunity to lead and show the nation what a healthy democracy looks like — where the political process is fair to all. This November, we urge our fellow Arizonans to vote yes on Prop 140.