MS SB2012

Abolishes partisan primary elections and replaces them with open preferential elections held three weeks before general elections where all qualified voters may participate regardless of party affiliation.

Establishes that candidates receiving a majority of votes in the preferential election advance alone to the general election ballot; if no candidate achieves a majority, the top two vote-getters advance to the general election.

Removes party affiliation requirements for candidate qualification and ballot access, allowing any qualified elector to run for office and participate in preferential elections without regard to political party membership.

Sets general elections for the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November; candidates must qualify 60 days before the general election by paying filing fees ($300 for Governor and US Senator down to $10 for county surveyor and constable).

Repeals all existing statutory provisions governing partisan primary elections, including party executive committee duties, primary election procedures, and primary election contest procedures.