As former elected officials and lifelong advocates for the Democratic Party, we firmly believe in the value of a two-party system that embraces all voters — even those who choose to be unaffiliated. Our experience has shown us that democracy truly thrives when every voice is heard and every voter feels empowered to participate.

That’s why we support Proposition 131.

Colorado stands as a beacon of electoral access, boasting same-day voter registration, automatic registration through the DMV and partisan primaries that include unaffiliated voters. Yet, despite these progressive measures, we face a troubling reality: Only 26% of registered voters participated in the 2024 primary. This low turnout highlights a critical flaw in our system — when voters perceive primaries as predetermined, they disengage.

Currently, most Colorado voters are unaffiliated (48%), yet they find themselves sidelined by a convoluted caucus system that disproportionately favors party affiliates. Candidates face immense challenges when attempting to gather signatures for ballot access, as they must rely solely on party members, effectively silencing the voice of unaffiliated voters. This outdated model was effective in the era of strong party affiliation, but now leaves a vast swath of voters feeling disenchanted.

The Open Primary and Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) system proposed in Proposition 131 is a transformative approach that could revitalize our electoral process. By allowing all qualified candidates to compete on a single primary ballot, the open primary empowers voters to select their preferred candidate without the current constraints of party lines.

This system not only enhances competition but also fosters greater voter engagement. Imagine a primary where the top four candidates advance to the general election, effectively shifting the power dynamics and making every vote count.

We must also consider the alarming trend of denying voters the option of RCV. Currently, there are 10 Republican-leaning states that have banned RCV, and a ban is on the ballot this year in Missouri. The Alaska Republican Party is attempting to repeal RCV in reaction to their failed attempt to recall Sen. Lisa Murkowski (R) for voting to impeach Donald Trump. She held her seat, thanks to RCV. Meanwhile, Sarah Palin lost her Congressional race to Mary Peltola because of RCV.

The success of these two moderates, facilitated by RCV, showcases its potential to elevate diverse voices and encourage collaboration across party lines. We oppose efforts anywhere to revert to an exclusionary two-party system that stifles competition and voter choice.

Should Proposition 131 pass, Gov. Polis has committed to ensuring a comprehensive rollout by 2028, setting the stage for a more inclusive electoral process. We can look to states like Alaska, Hawaii and Maine, and many municipalities across the country — including Boulder — where RCV is already making a positive impact, proving that a more equitable system is not only possible but already in practice.

Concerns about dark money in elections may be valid, but let’s not forget that the current system is already inundated with it. RCV has not been shown to attract additional dark money in jurisdictions where it is implemented. Furthermore, key supporters like Kent Thiry, a prominent supporter of RCV, have a track record of backing initiatives that have benefited all Coloradans, like opening primaries to unaffiliated voters, restoring the presidential primary and creating the Independent Redistricting Commission.

Open primaries and ranked voting offer a vital opportunity to reshape our electoral landscape. They promise to empower all voters — regardless of party affiliation — ensuring that every candidate has a fair chance to compete.

We encourage you to join us in supporting this change and moving towards a future where every voice is valued, and every vote counts, by voting “yes” on Proposition 131. Together, we can create a more vibrant and representative democracy in Colorado.

Democrat Edie Hooton is a former representative from House District 10 in Boulder. Democrat Stan Garnett is a former Boulder County District Attorney.