NYC Charter Revision Commission decides against implementing open primaries, impacting the democratic process.

At the recent final meeting of the Charter Revision Commission, Chair Rich Buery expressed the importance of the issue of open primaries, despite it not being initially included on the commission’s agenda. Established by Mayor Adams in December, the 13-member panel overwhelmingly received testimonies from the public in favor of transitioning to a nonpartisan electoral system. This reform aligns with similar systems adopted by 85% of U.S. cities, including major urban centers like Los Angeles and Chicago. However, despite robust support within the commission, proposals for open primaries will not appear on the ballot for the upcoming November general election.

Instead, voters will be presented with Question 5, which seeks to amend the charter to synchronize local elections for positions such as mayor, public advocate, comptroller, borough president, and City Council with U.S. presidential election years. However, even if an unprecedented turnout sees every eligible New Yorker voting in favor of this measure, structural barriers may render the initiative ineffective. The New York State Constitution mandates that city elections be conducted in odd-numbered years, presenting a significant hurdle for any potential changes to local election timelines.

The absence of a constitutional convention, which could potentially streamline this process, complicates matters further. The last attempt to secure approval for such a convention occurred in 2017, but it was decisively rejected by an 83% to 17% vote. Without legislative support and a constitutional amendment, the opportunity to shift local election timing remains unlikely.

Responses from commission members reveal a strong inclination toward open primaries. Several members voiced their commitment to reforming the primary system to include independent voters. Yet, despite this sentiment, only three members chosen to refrain from discussing the issue during the meeting. The majority of commissioners, at eight out of thirteen, expressed favor for open primaries, contributing to a disconnect between their discussions of democratic expansion and the lack of action taken.

Moving forward, several members, including Diane Savino and Kathy Wylde, have urged Mayor Adams to appoint a new commission dedicated to advancing democratic reforms, emphasizing the need for action that reflects the convictions of those in favor of increased voter participation and representation. The absence of open primaries on the ballot represents a missed opportunity for enhancing electoral inclusivity and ensuring that the voices of all citizens are heard.

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