Progressive Democrats Call Out National Democrats Interference In Open Primaries, Including Western North Carolina
As the Blue Ridge Times previously reported the Democrat Congressional Committee released its “Red to Blue” program list, effectively endorsing candidates in several competitive Democrat primaries. This included Democrat Jamie Ager, whose family has been deeply connected in Democrat politics for several years.
“Democrats are in disarray once again, this time fighting among themselves after DC Democrats tried to pick a winner before voters had their say. No matter which radical candidate they settle on after their primary chaos, Republicans will win,” said RNC Spokeswoman Emma Hall.
In response to this announcement, a coalition of 17 progressive candidates released a statement calling for “Open Primaries and Voter-Led Nominations.” A direct rebuke of the heavy-handed tactics from Washington to suppress progressive candidates. Two of Ager’s challengers, Dr. Richard Hudspeth and Paul Maddox, signed this statement.
Here are some key excerpts from the statement:
“Primaries are not an inconvenience; they are the foundation of democratic legitimacy,” said a coalition of candidates aligned on the issue. “Constituents deserve the opportunity to compare ideas, hear debate, and decide for themselves who will represent them rather than being told who to vote for.”
“You cannot argue that democracy is on the ballot in November while narrowing democracy in the primaries from now through August,” the coalition states. “If a candidate is strong, they should be able to earn support in open competition. Protecting them from competition is not confidence.”
“Parties play an important role in building infrastructure and supporting nominees, but voters must choose those nominees freely. Open primaries, transparent processes, and a robust debate are not obstacles to victory—they are the path to it. The Democratic Party will be strongest when voters, not insiders, choose its nominees.”
Tim’s Take: For almost a decade now, the Democrat’s establishment has tried to suppress its progressive wing in the primary process. Clinton had unfair help in crushing Bernie Sanders. In 2020, insiders pushed Biden to the forefront to head off Bernie again. And in 2024, national Democrats anointed Vice President Kamala Harris instead of having any type of competitive process. This is their standard playbook, and national Democrats will continue to use it to squash progressive voices. Until progressives band together and reject it thoroughly at the ballot box.
