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Representative, put your name on HB 2280!
END PRIMARY SCREENOUT IN TEXAS!
Texas is the only state that denies you the right to sign a ballot-access petition if you
vote in a primary. It's a right that is guaranteed in
the First Amendment of the US Constitution. No one even tells voters that if they
vote in the Democratic or Republican primary, Texas will not allow them
to sign a ballot-access petition for a candidate from another party or independent
campaign. Someone needs to stand up for the voters.
You can! Contact your state legislators (phone, email, letter, or fax)
and tell them you want them to add their name to the list of joint authors
of House Bill 2280.
If you're not sure who your state representative is, check here: Who Represents Me?
Or select your state representative from this list: Texas House Members
Tell them:
"Representative (name), I am a voter in your district. I ask
you to join as an author to HB2280. Voters like me are depending on you to
stand up for our rights. I think it is wrong and embarrassing that only in
Texas is my First-Amendment right to sign a ballot-access petition denied by the
'primary screenout' rule. This bill restores faith in the
election process and represents your commitment to good government."
You are encouraged to embellish and personalize your correspondence with your representative.
Follow the progress on the bill: HB2280
Additional facts:
- Texas has some of the toughest ballot access requirements in the USA.
- Only Texas denies voters the right to sign access petitions for other parties and candidates.
- This rule causes much confusion and anger from voters.
- It is extremely expensive and difficult for the Secretary of State to enforce.
- The rule is ripe for a legal challenge on First Amendment grounds.
- HB2280 maintains existing rules that prevent affiliating with more than one political party.
- HB2280 would not require a Texas constitutional amendment.
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