Proposition 60

By determining the outcome of two ballot measures this November 2, California voters could dramatically change the way they select their elected officials. Proposition 60: Protects California's proven, direct primary election system in which rank and file members of political parties select their party's nominees. Gives voters maximum choice of candidates by guaranteeing that all political parties can be represented on the November general election ballot. Gives voters a clear, unambiguous alternative to Proposition 62, which seeks to implement a Louisiana-style two-stage general election system in California. Proposition 62 is financed by insurance companies, financial institutions and wealthy politicians. By contrast, Proposition 62: Limits voter choice by allowing only two candidates - perhaps even from the same political party - to appear on the November general election ballot. Stifles the diverse political debate that is important to our democracy. If the flawed system promoted by Proposition 62 had been in effect for legislative and congressional races in 1998, 2000 and 2002, 50 general election contests would have been limited to two candidates from the same party. In virtually every case, third party and independent candidates would be shut out of the general election completely. Californians demand diversity in all aspects of their lives and they want their government to reflect that diversity. If Proposition 62 is approved by voters, diversity will suffer and politics in the state will return to being dominated by wealthy candidates who most benefit from this Louisiana-style election system. Approving Proposition 60 reaffirms California's primary election system and the right to choice in elections.