Expert: Phil Woodford - 3/21/2001

Question
Hi!

I just came across the term "blanket vote" and there seems to be no information about it on the internet. Exactly what is a "blanket vote"?

Thanks in advance,
M Ronnlid

Answer
Hi Magnus

The only context in which I've actually come across this phrase is American primaries.  In many states, you have to be a registered voter to participate in the primary elections to select party candidates.  Registered Republicans get to choose the Republican candidate, for example.  Independents and non-registered voters are excluded entirely from the process. Some states, however, have introduced so-called 'blanket voting', which means that any elector can vote in any party's primary.  An interesting, if slightly anarchic, idea!

I don't recall the phrase ever being used in the British context.  Primary elections don't really exist here.

Best wishes

Phil Woodford