Associated Press
ST. PAUL — A plan for an all-day presidential primary starting in 2012 is headed for a Senate vote after clearing a spending committee.
The bill from Senator Dan Larson would add a presidential primary on the same day as the precinct caucuses every four years.
The Secretary of State would pick the date with input from the political parties. The timing would be either after the Iowa caucuses or as part of a Midwestern primary if a regional primary system is adopted.
Precinct caucuses drew record turnout this year with a surge of interest in the presidential race.
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But Larson says voters were frustrated and disenfranchised by long waits and logistical problems at caucuses administered by political volunteers.
He says it’s time for state elections officials to step in.
The Senate Finance Committee approved the bill on a divided voice vote.
