Regarding your editorial comment about a "closed" primary: The political primary exists not just to select any candidate. Its purpose is to select candidates that specifically represent the goals and ideals of the given party.
The Republican Party is like other organized groups; it has established means by which someone becomes a member of that group. Why should someone who is not a member of the club be allowed to select those who represent the club? Why should someone who is not a member of a church be allowed to select those who lead that church?
If a person chooses not to affiliate with an organization, fine. But they should not be able to enjoy the rights and privileges of membership without also assuming the responsibilities of membership.
Vanna Hunter
Salt Lake City