MS SB2085

Abolishes partisan primary elections and replaces them with "preferential elections" open to all candidates regardless of party affiliation, effective July 1, 2019.

Establishes preferential elections three weeks before general elections, where candidates receiving a majority advance to the general election ballot alone; if no candidate achieves a majority, the top two vote-getters advance to the general election.

Requires candidates for state and county offices to file intent and pay filing fees 60 days before the general election (ranging from $100-$1,000 depending on office) with appropriate state or county election commissions or party executive committees.

Maintains general elections on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November, with all qualified electors able to participate in preferential and general elections regardless of party affiliation.

Repeals numerous sections of law governing partisan primary elections, including provisions for state and county executive committee duties, primary election procedures, and primary election contests.