top-two system
Coverage of top-two system in the Nexus archive.
- How do all-party primaries change politics? Just look to California
California implemented an "all-party primary" system in 2010, funneling all candidates from every party onto a single ballot for the top two spots. Experts note that while this system has increased voter turnout, its impact on moderating political fields has been mixed and it means there is no genuinely safe district. Massachusetts voters will consider a similar change this fall when deciding Question 3.
- Busy primary day sweeps the nation
June 2 is the busiest primary day of the year, featuring key races in California and New Jersey. California voters select a successor to Gov. Gavin Newsom and a challenger to Los Angeles mayor Karen Bass, while New Jersey progressives aim to nominate an Israel critic. The California governor race and LA mayor contest are shaped by the top-two primary system, creating strategic dynamics among candidates like Steve Hilton, Xavier Becerra, and Tom Steyer.