COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho – Idaho voters are preparing for an important election day, with crucial deadlines looming. Friday marks the final day you can register to vote online in the state.
In this election, voters will face significant choices, including a proposal that could transform the way elections are conducted in Idaho. Proposition One seeks to establish ranked-choice voting for general elections and top-four primaries.
Under this system, rather than holding separate party primaries, a single primary ballot would include all candidates. The four candidates receiving the most votes would advance to the general election. In the general election, voters would then rank candidates based on their preferences.
While Washington has utilized a top-two primary system for years, this change would be a significant shift for Idaho.
Advocacy group Reclaim Idaho is backing Proposition One, arguing that the current system disenfranchises independent voters, who are excluded from primaries unless they affiliate with a party. They contend that this measure would facilitate the election of more independent-minded leaders in the state.
Opposition to the proposal comes from Governor Brad Little, who expressed his concerns in a statement on social media platform X.
“I am opposed to ranked-choice voting,” Gov. Little stated. “We must promote voting practices that are clear, increase voter participation, and don’t undermine confidence in elections… and ranked-choice voting meets none of those standards.”
As voters prepare to make their voices heard on Proposition One, it’s vital to be aware of upcoming deadlines. Tomorrow is the last day to register to vote online.
For more information, visit the Kootenai County Elections Office website here.
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