The State of Alaska votes this year on Super Tuesday, February 5th in what is called an ‘open primary’ for Democrats and a ‘closed primary’ for Republicans. Alaska is very unique when it comes to voting in Presidential Primaries. In fact, they have what is called a ‘Blanket Primary’ for many of the parties registered in Alaska (Democrats, Libertarian, Independence and members of a Limited Political Party). I will try my best to unravel some of the meanings behind these terms for you.
But first, I’d like to say that Alaska residents are facing perhaps the most important presidential primary they have ever voted in. The nominations have never been so in flux in nearly a generation. Both parties do not have a clear winner, and each campaign is shifting their focus to a long term outlook. In fact, we might see both the Democrats and Republicans fighting this one out until the summer.
2008 therefore is no longer about Iowa and New Hampshire. It’s about Super Tuesday and the states that follow. And Alaska sits in a position of power to determine who the nominee may eventually be.
In light of this, let me share a quick history and voter’s guide to the most salient questions I’ve been asked about Alaska and Super Tuesday. A political professional for nearly 10 years, I hope that this guide helps to answer all of your questions. If you have further ones, feel free to leave a comment.
Can I vote in the Alaska Primary?
Only if you are a registered to vote prior to Tuesday, January 7th. At the time of this writing it looks like the deadline has passed for all of you who have not yet registered. Sorry kids.
Can Independents vote in the Alaska Primary?
Yes, but not in the Republican primary. When you go to the polls, you will be asked which ballot you want. You may in vote the Democratic primary, Libertarian Primary an Independence primary.
Why can Independents vote in the Alaska Primary? Why can they not vote in the Alaska Republican Primary?
The State of Alaska votes in what is known as an ‘open primary’ for Democrats, Libertarian and Independence Party members. This means that as long as you have registered to vote in time, you will be allowed to choose whether you want any of these ballots.
Open primaries are somewhat unique. They allow any resident to pick up a ballot and cast a vote for whomever they wish, regardless of their personal party affiliation. Much like the General Election, you are free to choose who you want.
Many Independents find this system to be geared favorably towards them and typically more moderate politicians fare well in an open primary. Open primaries traditionally have better turnout since more people feel comfortable voting that day since they don’t have to officially declare that they belong to a party.
On the other hand, the Republican primary in Alaska is a closed primary. This means that only those voters who have officially declared their membership in the Republican Party may participate.
Closed primaries are a unique example of a political party’s interest in keeping active participation in the party going strong.
Unfortunately, this type of primary traditionally has lower turnout since only those who are officially declared as a member of that party are permitted to vote. Furthermore, many Independents find this system to be a disincentive to pay attention to the primary elections and therefore pay little mind to the race until the General Election.
Does the Alaska Primary matter?
I can confidently say that the primary matters a great deal. When a presidential primary comes to a state like Alaska and the voting will still determine the outcome, it is a rare opportunity for voters to have their voices heard nationally.
If you are a Democrat, your vote will contribute to your candidate’s delegate total when it comes to convention time. Even if your candidate doesn’t win Alaska, the better he or she does, the more delegates he or she will have to potentially be the nominee.
If you are a Republican, let’s face it, your vote is probably even more important in determining your party’s nominee. This race is still completely up for grabs. After February 5th is done and your vote is counted, we might see someone claim the mantle of front runner.
If you’re an Independent voter, you should feel equally enamored. Independents are widely known to be the heartbeat of the voting public whose opinions are frequently the basis for the ‘mandate’ that new presidents talk about during their first days. There should be no doubt that the candidates want your vote more than anything else. If you help in choosing either of the nominees, you’ll help shape the next 4 years of public policy. (see my other post on Why Super Tuesday Is So Important)
What resources are out there for me?
I’m afraid that not many will go this length in explaining the logic of our primary system to you, but I will point you in the right direction for better details on what to expect on Election Day.
What’s Next?
Check back here for updates and bookmark the above pages. And be sure to leave a comment if you have any questions.
