Clarifying Question 3: Addressing Knowledge Gaps and Answering Questions about Electoral Reform in Nevada

March 21, 2024

In November 2022, nearly 53 percent of Nevada voted in favor of Ballot Question 3, a measure that would establish open primaries and ranked-choice voting in statewide elections. Due to the proposed change to the Nevada Constitution, this question will be on the ballot for a second statewide vote in 2024.

Although the measure passed in the 2022 election cycle, it has been controversial, with opposition across the political spectrum. Supporters of the proposal note that this system may further engage Nevada’s growing population of nonpartisan voters, as well as help address issues of hyperpolarization and negative campaigning. Those who oppose the measure have expressed concern with potential limits on party participation, as well as voter confusion, which may lead to uncounted ballots and increased disenfranchisement.

The Guinn Center conducted its own survey in the summer of 2023 (nearly one year after the 2022 election) to gauge Nevadans’ awareness and understanding of the ballot measure. Even after reading the sample ballot explanation of Nevada Question 3, when asked their opinion on the reform, 37 percent of respondents answered, “I don’t know.”

This report shares key findings from this survey and addresses identified knowledge gaps with a comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) guide with the aim of educating Nevada voters on the electoral reform Question 3 proposes.

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