Three Indiana state representatives have introduced HB 1096, to convert Indiana from an open primary state to a closed primary state. They sponsors are J.D. Prescott (R-Union City), Michelle Davis (R-Whiteland), and Elizabeth Rowray (R-Yorktown). The voter registration form would have a blank line for applicants to indicate party. The bill has no provision for parties to choose to let independents vote in their primaries.
Hawaii State Senator Mike Gabbard (D-Kapolei) has introduced SB 2480. It establishes a top-two primary. If the bill were enacted, parties would no longer have nominees except for president, so they would no longer be able to be ballot-qualified unless they could receive 10% for president. Senator Gabbard is the father of Tulsi Gabbard.
West Virginia State Senator Eric J. Tarr (R-Putnam) has introduced SB 90. It deletes the law that lets parties decide for themselves whether to let independents vote in their own primaries. The bill would be unconstitutional if it became law. In 1986 the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Tashjian v Republican Party of Connecticut that the First Amendment requires states to let parties choose to invite independents to vote in their primaries, if they wish.
Twenty-two Wisconsin legislators have introduced AB 223. It would forbid out-of-state individuals to circulate candidate petitions, although the restriction would not apply to petitions for presidential candidates.
