Linda Bundy

Chairman Berry and Members of House Election Law I support HB 1627, creating a single primary ballot. With a single ballot nonpartisan primary all voters participate in the election. Undeclared voters can vote without having to declare a party before voting and then undeclare after. Voters can vote for their preferred candidate, regardless of party affiliation. Candidates would have to appeal to their full constituency, not just a smaller, more partisan group of voters. The two candidates with the most votes move on to the general election, regardless of party affiliation, which more fully reflects the wishes of the voters. Elected officials would not feel pressured to follow more partisan views. Voter participation is greater in places where single ballot primaries take place. Thirteen New Hampshire cities have nonpartisan primaries and voter turnout and engagement have increased. Single ballot primaries are better for voters and candidates. I respectfully ask the committee to vote Ought to Pass on HB 1627. Linda Bundy Antrim