NYC Charter Commission Validates Unite NY Reform Agenda to Expand Voter Access In Primaries

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 2, 2025

More than three million unaffiliated New Yorkers statewide – including more than one million voters in New York City are excluded from key primary elections due to the current closed primary system, which only allows registered Democrats or Republicans to vote. The New York City Charter Revision Commission’s (CRC) 2025 Interim Report would change that with its proposal to move to an open primary system in the City. 

Open primaries are one of the five pillars of reform that Unite NY, and our grassroots volunteers have been working towards to help improve democracy and choice in New York for all citizens, irrespective of their political beliefs.

“New Yorkers want a system that serves voters, no matter their political party. The Commission’s recommendations are a step forward in expanding voter access and giving all citizens in New York City a voice in critical elections like primaries,” said Tim Hoefer, Interim Executive Director of Unite NY.

In a city where partisan primaries often decide the outcome before the general election, this potential change would provide access for all  New York City citizens, regardless of party affiliation. The recommendation from the CRC to add open primaries in NYC, and clear support for Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) show momentum is building for reforms that would expand citizens' voices in elections. Unite NY urges the CRC to put an open primary proposal before voters that, if approved, would take effect in the 2029 citywide election cycle.

The report validates what Unite NY has heard from New Yorkers across the state through our polling, canvassing, and meeting with leaders: people want more choice, more competition, and a political process that gives citizens a meaningful voice in choosing who represents them.

Open primaries and RCV are practical, popular solutions that help ensure candidates speak to all citizens—not just the loudest voices. Together, these reforms increase turnout, competition, and accountability.

Unite NY is proud to have helped shape this conversation by equipping citizens with data, amplifying their voices, and meeting with decision-makers to push for real change.

Unite NY encourages all New Yorkers to speak out and join our growing movement for a fairer, stronger, more democratic New York at uniteny.org