On July 27, Delaware Governor Jack Markell signed SB 118 and SB 89. One bill moves the presidential primary from February to April, and the other bill shrinks the period during which no voter can change voter registration from one party to another.

In Delaware, the only way for parties to qualify, or retain qualified status, is by keeping voter registration membership of approximately 650 members. It is difficult for parties to gain members during the months in which it is impossible for voters to switch parties. Because of the new laws, voters can switch parties at all times during odd years, and during the first few months of presidential election years, and of course for a longer period in midterm election years (when there is no presidential primary, just a primary for other office in the late summer). But during the times when voters can’t switch parties, the only way for a party to gain members is by finding unregistered people and registering them. Thanks to Josh Putnam for this news.