EDITOR:

The purpose of a primary election is for all voters to have the opportunity to decide the party’s candidates for the general election, and to build party unity around those candidates.

I’ve heard discussion from both major political parties about “crossing parties” to help determine the candidate of the other party for a variety of reasons.

In Michigan, you have to be a registered voter, but do not have to be registered in a party to vote as a Democrat or a Republican.

You cannot split your ballot.

If you select candidates in your party of choice, and cross over to the other party to vote for one candidate on even one race, your ballot will be spoiled. Your entire ballot and opportunity to have a voice in the primary will be wasted.

There are many options for how to actually cast your ballot, be it absentee, early voting, or voting on election day.

Resources such as Vote411, the League of Women Voters and the Michigan Voter Information Center at https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us can be helpful.

Please vote responsibly.

Fran Majestic

Bark River