Nebraska Democratic Party leadership has decided to open its statewide May primary to independents. The party’s Central Committee voted 32-30 on Saturday to make the change. State party chairman Vince Powers said the measure is aimed in part at encouraging people to vote. “This vote emphasizes the openness of our party and the great importance we place on the political process and voter participation in all elections,” Powers said.
Before Saturday, independent voters — officially nonpartisan — could vote on party ballots only in federal primary elections, such as those for U.S. senator.
Republicans made up 48 percent of registered Nebraska voters in the 2012 general election. Democrats made up about 32 percent and independents about 20 percent.
Full Article: Nebraska Democrats decide to open primary voting to independents this year – Daily Journal.