Former Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker has publicly endorsed a ballot question that would eliminate party-based primaries in state elections, a move placing him at odds with much of the state’s Republican establishment as well as Democratic leaders. Question 3 proposes replacing the traditional partisan primary system with an all-party primary, where all candidates appear on a single ballot regardless of party affiliation, and the top two vote-getters proceed to the general election in November.

Baker, who served as a moderate Republican governor from 2015 to 2023, supports the measure on the grounds that it would broaden voter choice and encourage candidates to appeal beyond their party base. Reflecting on his own experience as governor, during which he often faced veto-proof Democratic legislative majorities, Baker said the proposed system “will give voters more choice and our elected officials will have to reach across the aisle to voters from other parties if they want to be successful.” He emphasized that the reform could shift the focus in elections toward practical governance rather than strict party loyalty.

Advocates of the measure argue that an all-party primary could benefit candidates with more centrist positions by allowing them to compete for votes from the entire electorate, rather than only within party registrants. This, they contend, could open the political field to more independent-minded and moderate candidates who might otherwise struggle in partisan primaries dominated by ideological extremes.

However, the proposal faces opposition from both major political parties in Massachusetts. Republican and Democratic leaders have argued that the change could enable powerful donors, particularly from the private equity sector, to exert greater influence over election outcomes. Republicans warn that in many predominantly Democratic districts, the new system might entirely exclude Republican candidates from general election ballot lines. This concern is underscored by Baker’s own political history, as he avoided a contested Republican primary in 2022 against a Trump-endorsed challenger by opting not to seek a third term.

Baker’s endorsement of Question 3 marks a notable departure from his party’s position but aligns him with other prominent figures who support the reform. Among these are former Democratic governor Deval Patrick and former gubernatorial candidate Danielle Allen. Conversely, Baker’s successor, Governor Maura Healey, has expressed reservations about the proposal. Although Healey has voiced support for ranked-choice voting—a separate electoral reform that Massachusetts voters rejected six years ago—she stopped short of endorsing the move to a nonpartisan primary system, indicating uncertainty about the so-called “jungle primary” model.

Since leaving office, Baker has maintained a selective approach to political endorsements, backing candidates from both parties in various races but notably refraining from involvement in the current gubernatorial contest. Despite this, the Republican nominee for governor has sought to associate himself with Baker’s moderate reputation. Baker’s support of Question 3 may reflect his continued interest in promoting electoral reforms that encourage broader appeal and bipartisanship in a deeply partisan political landscape.