New Jersey lawmakers say they are open to changing primary ballot system

Lawmakers from both sides of the aisle said they are open to rethinking New Jersey’s primary ballot system, which has come under national scrutiny in the past few weeks.

New Jersey’s ballot system allows county officials to back a candidate ahead of the statewide primary, placing them on the “county line.” Studies show candidates placed on the line have a much higher chance of winning, up to a 38-point advantage compared to non-party-backed candidates who are placed in “ballot Siberia.”