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TESTIMONY
Testimony by Richard Fox from Unite New York outlining the benefits of nonpartisan primaries
2:09:14
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133 sec
Richard Fox, a volunteer with Unite New York, urges the adoption of nonpartisan primaries, arguing the current closed system excludes independent voters.
He outlines the benefits of nonpartisan primaries, including ensuring candidates appeal to a broader electorate for majority support, fostering more constructive campaigns, increasing overall voter participation by including independents, and potentially reducing political polarization.
Fox views this reform as a logical extension of the city's adoption of ranked-choice voting.
- Nonpartisan primaries allow all voters, regardless of affiliation, to participate.
- Leads to candidates needing broader appeal and potential majority support.
- Encourages more civil campaigning.
- Increases participation by including over 1 million independent voters.
- Helps reduce polarization by forcing cross-party appeal.
Richard Fox
2:09:14
Hi.
2:09:16
Thank you for having the opportunity giving me the opportunity to testify.
2:09:19
My name is Richard Fox.
2:09:20
I'm a Unite New York volunteer and Brooklyn resident testifying to suggest that New York City adopts nonpartisan primary elections to the city charter through a ballot proposal in November.
2:09:32
Currently, voters are not not registered with the party, have no say in the choice of candidates that go to the general election.
2:09:38
They are entirely blocked out of the primary election.
2:09:41
A nonpartisan primary system allows all voters, regardless of party affiliation, to participate in selecting the candidates who will best represent their interests.
2:09:49
This change will increase voter turnout and ensure a more representative and inclusive process.
2:09:55
Some additional reasons why nonpartisan primaries are necessary.
2:09:59
Majority support for winning candidates.
2:10:01
Nonpartisan primaries allow candidates to reflect the preferences of the broader electorate rather than appealing solely to party members, ultimately leading to a more diverse and well rounded candidate.
2:10:13
It also combats the issue of a spoiler candidate and ensures that no vote is wasted.
2:10:19
Encouraging positive campaigning.
2:10:21
Candidates will be incentivized to appeal to a broader range of voters, fostering a more civil and constructive electoral environment.
2:10:29
Third, increased voter participation.
2:10:31
Nonpartisan primaries would allow all voters, including voters not registered to a party, to have a say in the selection of candidates, leading to greater and broader engagement and a broader electorate.
2:10:43
And the last point, reduction of polarization.
2:10:47
Holding nonpartisan primaries would force candidates to appeal to a wide range of voters.
2:10:52
This could help reduce partisan divisions and foster more collaboration, stability, and bipartisan cooperation.
2:10:58
By adopting nonpartisan primaries, New York City can build on the success of ranked choice voting and ensure that our primaries are more representative of the will of the people.
2:11:07
In addition, by adopting nonpartisan primaries, we can foster a political environment where voters' voices are heard and the election process becomes more reflective of our collective values.
2:11:18
This legislation represents a crucial step in enhancing democracy, fostering voter engagement, and promoting fairer and more representative elections.
2:11:27
Thank you.