National Presidential Primary

National Voter, Jan-Feb, 2004

According to William G. Mayer ("In Search of Reform," September/October 2003), the downside to a National Presidential Primary is the winner might be elected by as little as 25% of the voters. If ever there was a perfect arena for Instant Runoff Voting, this is it!

Marilyn Mackay

Wainscott, NY

Once again the voting rights of DC citizens have been overlooked. In the September issue, William Mayer refers to "the current system, with its complicated pattern of fifty distinct primaries and caucuses." There is at least one more presidential primary being conducted in this cycle, here in the District of Columbia. In fact, this primary will be the first in the nation and is scheduled for January. 13--an effort by local leaders to remind the nation that DC citizens have no voting representation in Congress. Note that DC citizens have been voting in primaries since 1954, although we did not get the right to vote for President until 1961!

We hope you will correct this oversight in the January issue.

Frances Gemmill

Washington, DC