Campaign launched for open primaries

By Mark Hanson / @MarkHanson

A group of people have got together to produce a MoveOn-style online campaign called Open Up to try and push the concept of Open Primaries, so that every political party consults the public before choosing a candidate. So, even in ultra-safe seats, the local MP has to work to gain the endorsement of the public meaning that in many areas the primary will be more important than the election itself.

It’s a bit like series 4 of The Wire where Carcetti celebrates winning the Democratic primary, knowing that the actual election itself is a gimme in Baltimore once he’s the Democratic candidate.

There’s not a lot of detail about the new campaign yet, but their site is good; it’s very social media-friendly and their ‘ask’ is clear – they want to see reform by the next parliament.
To make sure they get it, they’re asking for your support – so sign their petition and watch their videos.

They say they’re going to be blogging throughout the campaign and talking to a range of people to hear their opinions on political reform – from celebrities to political experts and you, the great British public. There’s also a space on the website where you can follow the campaign’s progress and stay up-to-date on key campaign issues and news.