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Bill

HB 1056

Voter registration by political party affiliation; partially closed primary elections.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Phillips

Bill requires Virginia voters register party affiliation to participate in primary elections, shifting from open to partially closed primaries; subcommittee recommended removal from consideration.

Subcommittee recommends striking from the docket (8-Y 0-N)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1056

Legislative bill overview

HB 1056 would require Virginia voters to register with a political party affiliation and implement partially closed primary elections, meaning only registered party members could vote in that party's primary. The bill was prefiled in January 2026 and assigned to the House Committee on Privileges and Elections but was recommended for removal from consideration by a subcommittee in early February.

Why is this important

Primary elections significantly shape which candidates advance to general elections, making them consequential to overall political outcomes. Currently, Virginia allows open primaries where unaffiliated voters can participate, and this bill would fundamentally alter voter access and the mechanics of candidate selection. The recommendation to strike the bill from the docket suggests legislative opposition to this structural change.

Potential points of contention

  • Voter participation and access: Requiring party registration could discourage independent voters from participating in primaries, potentially reducing the overall primary electorate and changing which candidates appeal to party leadership versus the broader electorate
  • Administrative burden and data concerns: Implementing mandatory party registration creates new voter records tied to political affiliation, raising questions about privacy, data security, and whether this information could influence voter treatment
  • Ideological implications: Closed primaries typically benefit ideologically-aligned party activists over moderate candidates, potentially increasing partisan polarization in general elections where independent and swing voters decide outcomes

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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