Sen. John Cornyn has come out against top Texas Republicans’ efforts to close the state’s GOP primaries, warning that it could lead to minority party status. Cornyn promoted a Dallas Morning News op-ed on social media, arguing that closed primaries would further curtail turnout and concentrate power in a narrow group of voters.
Cornyn’s Stance
Cornyn’s remark puts him at odds with Gov. Greg Abbott, who has backed closed primaries. The Texas Republican Party and its leaders have pushed to close the contests, citing concerns about Democrats infiltrating GOP primaries. However, Cornyn believes this move would backfire on his party, saying ‘Democrats haven’t turned Texas blue; Republican’s might.’
A political science professor at Southern Methodist University, Cal Jillson, agrees with Cornyn, stating that adopting party registration and a closed primary would lower turnout and make it more partisan and ideological. This could make Republican candidates less attractive in the general election.
Original reporting: Texas Tribune (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
