3 Qs with Delbert Hosemann http://www.djournal.com/pages/story.asp?ID=270811&pub=1&div=News
Q: In Tuesday’s runoff election, voters cannot cross over and vote in another party election. What is your office hearing about this from clerks, poll managers and voters?
A: In any Mississippi primary, the Democratic and Republican parties are responsible for holding their own elections. Our office has received questions about crossover voting. We feel confident our circuit clerks are well-versed in this issue. We would remind all of our voters our state has closed primaries. This means you must vote in the same party for the primary runoff as you voted in the primary election.
Q: Do you think that should be changed? Why or why not?
A: We have been asked by Sen. Burton, chairman of the Elections Committee, to provide an overview of the primary and general election processes of other states. Our office is in the process of compiling this information, which will be disseminated to the House and Senate election committees. We have no position concerning the several options available for the conduct of primary elections. Our main concern is ensuring every eligible Mississippian is able to cast their ballot for the candidate of their choice and our elections are conducted as smoothly as possible.
Q: What are your expectations for the 1st District special election April 22, and will the Secretary of State’s office do anything extra to inform voters about it?
A: As with any election, we will run public service announcements to promote the vote, and we encourage the media to do the same. I will also be making public service announcements on radio talk shows and with press releases to the media to remind the electorate.
NE MS Daily Journal
3/30/8
Magnolia Tribune
