What a Rip Off!

I don't get to vote in the primary! Alaska is one of the states participating in the Super Duper Tuesday voting on February 5th. In 2000 we had regular voting for delegates--you had to be republican to vote for a republican candidate, but other wise, you could vote in the democratic primary or with any other party you wanted.

I am a Green party member. I often vote Democratic, but I think it is important to be registered Green, to help bolster the numbers in a 3rd party and to demonstrate that I support the Green party agenda.

Well, this year the Alaska Democrats are caucusing. You have to be a register Democrat to caucus. I really want to vote in the primary, but I am unwilling to change my party affiliation to Democratic in order to vote in the primary.

So drat, I am left out of the process. I really like voting. I like having a voice (even if AK usually goes Conservative/Republican). Plus, this year I am really up on the candidates (on all sides) and I feel well informed about their platforms.

I feel cheated!

p.s. The democrats are caucusing at a prestigious research institute/aquarium here, while the republicans are polling at a local dive bar here. I think this is an interesting commentary on the different parties priorities.