GOP primary would have been open if no opposing party candidates had filed
Odds are either Chuck Rushe or Heather Fiorentino will be [the] next school superintendent [in Pasco County, Florida].
The two are embroiled in arguably the most important local race in the county this year.
But 60 percent of the electorate won't be able to choose between the two candidates.
Many people blame that on James Sean Griffin.
The 33-year old Land O'Lakes Republican joined the race as write-in candidate Thursday, effectively freezing out Democratic, Independent and other non-Republican voters from casting ballots in the Aug. 31 primary. ...
According to state law, write-in candidates, regardless of party affiliation, are eligible to participate during general elections. Before Griffin filed, the primary election between Rushe and Fiorentino - both Republicans - was open to all voters because there was no outside competition. -- Pasco: School chief race hit by twist (St. Petersburg Times)
This is the first I have heard of this mandatory opening of party primaries only under certain conditions. It seems to violate the rights of the party to decide who will be its members.