The Tennessee House State & Local Committee convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss House Bill 886, which proposes a shift to closed primaries in the state. This legislation would require voters to declare their party affiliation to participate in primary elections, a significant change from the current open primary system.

The bill's sponsor, Chairman Todd, explained that the new system would allow voters to register with a political party starting November 1, 2025. Voters who are not registered by this date would have the option to register with a party at the time of voting. However, once registered, voters would only be able to participate in the primary elections of the party they are affiliated with, with a 90-day window for changing party affiliation before a primary election.

Supporters of the bill, including Representative Warner, argued that it is necessary to prevent crossover voting, which they believe undermines the integrity of party primaries. Warner expressed gratitude for the bill, stating it has been needed for a long time.

Conversely, several committee members voiced strong opposition. Representative Powell raised concerns that the bill would exacerbate partisanship and diminish voter independence, arguing that it complicates the voting process for those who may wish to switch party affiliations based on candidate preferences. Powell emphasized that many voters appreciate the ability to choose candidates across party lines.

Public testimony included opposition from Debbie Gould, president of the League of Women Voters of Tennessee, who argued that closed primaries would further reduce voter participation and disenfranchise independent voters. She highlighted that many voters identify as independent and would be excluded from the primary process under the proposed changes.

Stephen Dale Puckett, a resident of Hendersonville, also opposed the bill, citing concerns about potential harassment and intimidation of voters who may not align with a specific party. He argued that the state should not dictate party affiliation and that the bill could lead to negative consequences for voter turnout.

The committee's discussions highlighted a deep divide over the implications of closed primaries, with proponents arguing for party integrity and opponents warning of increased partisanship and reduced voter engagement. The bill's future remains uncertain as it moves through the legislative process, with significant public interest and concern surrounding its potential impact on Tennessee's electoral landscape.