If you follow local politics, you probably know that there is a major disagreement in the Rhode Island Republican party.  Some in the GOP want to close the primary so that only Republicans who have been registered for at least three months can vote.  Others want to keep the current system, where unaffiliated voters are allowed to vote, then disaffiliate before leaving the polling place.  I find it hard to believe there can even be disagreement on this issue.

     A political party's primary should be closed to anyone who has not been a member for a specific period of time.  Failing to do so undermines the purpose of a political party and allows those who are not committed to the party's goals to interfere.  If you need proof, just look at the 2006 primary between Steve Laffey and Lincoln Chafee. 

     Some might argue that a closed primary doesn't foster a sense of inclusion and openness, but this is nonsense.  Unlike a general election, where the party and candidates should court unaffiliated voters, a primary should be solely for dedicated members of the party to choose the best candidate.  If voters would really like to vote in the Republican primary, perhaps they should consider becoming a registered Republican.