This explainer presents both sides based on the measure's text. It does not recommend a vote.
Plain English Summary
Amendment H would change South Dakota's primary election system to a "top-two" open primary format. Instead of separate party primaries, all candidates would appear on one primary ballot, and the top two vote-getters would advance to the general election regardless of party affiliation.
If YES
All voters could participate in primary elections regardless of party registration
confidence: high
Candidates from the same party could face each other in general elections
confidence: high
Primary elections would feature all candidates on a single ballot
confidence: high
Independent and third-party candidates would have increased opportunities to reach general elections
confidence: medium
If NO
South Dakota would keep its current partisan primary system
confidence: high
Party primaries would remain separate, with only registered party members typically voting in each primary
confidence: high
General elections would continue to feature one candidate from each qualifying party
confidence: high
Current election procedures and ballot formats would remain unchanged
confidence: high
Financial impact
Fiscal impact analysis not yet available. Implementation would likely require changes to ballot design and election administration procedures.
TL;DR
Amendment H would replace South Dakota's partisan primaries with an open primary system where all candidates compete together and the top two advance to the general election.
Limitations
Based on measure title only — full text analysis may reveal additional details