A Florida election law could keep some voters from deciding certain races in the upcoming primary election. Sixteen years ago Florida voters approved an amendment to the state constitution. It states when there’s a write-in candidate, it automatically closes the election to voters who are not registered to that specific party. Some feel that excludes them from having a say in the process. “Certainly it does need to be addressed. To me it’s not a democrat or republican issue. It gives the impression of impropriety,” said Fort Myers voter Richard Schaffer.
There are two races in southwest Florida where only republicans will be able to vote in certain races. The 77th District State Representative race in Lee County, and the Charlotte County Commissioner race. “A write-in candidate in the general election is considered opposition. So that would essentially close a primary,” said Bernie Feliciano with the Lee County Election office.
The 77th District State Representatives race puts Dane Eagle, Brandon Ivey and Jim Roach – who are all republicans – against write-in candidate Jeremy Wood.
“That essentially closes that contest to only registered republicans,” Feliciano said.
Full Article: Election law could keep some voters away in primary – NBC-2.com WBBH News for Fort Myers, Cape Coral & Naples, Florida.