Closed primary bill advances out of Alabama House despite bipartisan opposition

By: Andrea Tinker

Outlets: Alabama Reflector

Published: March 20, 2026

Words: 1,111

Last Updated: 1 day, 1 hour ago

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The Alabama House of Representatives Thursday passed a bill that would create state party registration and make it a requirement to vote in primaries following an hours-long debate that revealed divisions in the GOP caucus over the measure.

HB 541, sponsored by Rep. Ernie Yarbrough, R-Trinity, would require existing voters to register with a party to participate in primary elections after Jan. 1, 2027. Voters who wish to switch parties would have to change …

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