The Republican Party of Texas has announced its move to close its primary elections to non-Republican voters, amending Rule 46 in a move party leaders say is aimed at protecting the integrity of the nomination process.
During its Second Quarter Meeting held in Austin over the weekend, the State Republican Executive Committee overwhelmingly approved changes to clarify and strengthen the rule. The decision limits the participation in GOP primaries strictly to those who are registered as Republicans.
“This is not just about a rule change – it’s about protecting the integrity of our elections and defending the voice of our conservative base,” said Abraham George (R), Chairman of the Republican Party of Texas. “Our primaries should reflect Republican values – not outside interference.”
The amendment follows a strong directive from grassroots delegates at the 2024 State Convention, where members voted overwhelmingly to close the primaries. Party leaders argue that open primaries have enabled Democrats and progressive activists to sway Republican outcomes, diluting the party’s conservative principles.
“For too long, open primaries have allowed Democrats and progressive activists to manipulate Republican outcomes, weakening our candidates and diluting our values,” the Texas GOP said in a press release. “We will not allow our nomination process to be hijacked.”
Chairman George named the rule change as part of a larger conservative movement to uphold election integrity, expressing, “we are putting Texas Republicans back in charge of Texas Republican elections.”
“Only Republicans should pick Republican nominees,” the party stated in a press release. “That’s how we protect our platform, our values, and our future. Texas is red. Let’s keep it that way – by keeping our primaries red.”
The most recent legislative session was also controversial amongst Republicans as Texas House Speaker Dustin Burrows (R) faced scrutiny over leading, what many believe, was a session that empowers Texas House Democrats.
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