Open Primaries,
Stronger Democracy

Why should I support Amendment H?

South Dakota’s primaries currently exclude 154,820 South Dakota voters (25% of registered voters). Amendment H would change that and give every eligible citizen the right to vote in taxpayer-funded elections

How would Amendment H work?

Simply put, Amendment H Opens our primary to all eligible voters. Everybody votes with all the candidates on one primary ballot instead of having separate Republican and Democratic primaries. Voters will vote for their preferred candidate and the two candidates with the most votes will face off in November.

What offices would open primaries apply to?

The open primaries system would apply to all congressional, statewide, legislative, and county offices. Amendment H would go into effect in 2025.

Will a candidate’s party still be listed on the ballot?

Yes, if candidates choose to affiliate with a party, it will be listed on the ballot.

Can parties still choose a specific candidate to endorse?

Yes. Parties can still endorse and advocate for the candidates they believe most align with the party’s platform and vision.

Can candidates of any party run in the primary?

Yes, including candidates of third parties and unaffiliated candidates.

If only two candidates run in the primary, do both candidates advance?

Yes. If two or fewer candidates run in the primary, all primary election candidates will advance to the general election. 

How do other states conduct their primaries?

South Dakota’s closed system is rare. It is one of only 15 states with closed state and federal primaries.

Will this advantage Republicans or Democrats?

Open primaries are not designed to advantage one party over the other. The system makes it so politicians have to earn support from all voters, not just those who vote in their primaries.

What can I do to help? 

Vote YES on Amendment H in November. Share the word with neighbors, friends, and family!