South Carolina Republicans Push for Closed Primaries with H. 3643

January 22, 2025

A resounding majority of South Carolina Republicans—at least 90%, according to recent data—are calling for action to protect the integrity of the GOP’s candidate selection process. At the center of this effort is House Bill 3643 (H. 3643), legislation aimed at ensuring that only registered Republicans can vote in Republican primaries.

The push to pass H. 3643 is gaining momentum, thanks to the leadership of several Republican legislators. Reps. B. Newton, Pope, Chapman, Taylor, Bowers, Sanders, Davis, and Landing have stepped forward as co-sponsors, demonstrating their commitment to securing the Republican primary process. Their advocacy has been instrumental in advancing this initiative, but more support is needed to ensure the bill’s success.

Proponents of H. 3643 argue that allowing Democrats to vote in Republican primaries undermines the will of the party’s voters. By implementing a system where party members register their affiliation, the GOP aims to preserve the authenticity of their candidate selection process. The bill also allows individuals to be “undeclared,” enabling them to vote in either primary. However, once they cast their vote in a primary, they are automatically registered with that party.

Now, party leaders are calling on South Carolina Republicans to take action. They encourage constituents to reach out to their State Representatives and urge them to co-sponsor H. 3643. Advocates believe that grassroots engagement is critical to moving this legislation forward.

“This is about giving South Carolina Republicans a fair and transparent process,” said Drew McKissick, Chairman of the South Carolina Republican Party. “We need every voice to join the fight to protect the future of our party.”

If you believe in maintaining the integrity of Republican primaries, contact your State Representative today and ask them to support H. 3643. Together, South Carolina Republicans can take a stand for a stronger, more accountable party process.