Bill Black

As one of 50 delegates who participated in the First NH Citizens Assembly at Saint Anselm College in June 2024, I witnessed firsthand the power of bringing together diverse voices to address our state's challenges. Over three consecutive days, delegates from across the political spectrum worked collaboratively to develop proposals for reducing polarization and improving political representation. On the final day, an overwhelming 85% of Assembly delegates voted to endorse the single ballot primary proposal. Our deliberations revealed three key benefits of single ballot primaries: simplifying the voting process by eliminating party declarations, expanding voter choice among all candidates, and encouraging candidates to appeal to their full constituency. Research from states that have implemented similar reforms suggests this approach reduces polarization and helps elect officials who better represent all constituents.