In at least one way, presidential-primary season has proved an educational experience.
We probably should have known this, but it turns out that a relatively small but not insubstantial number of states offer a “none of the above”/”uncommitted” option for voters.
Virginia does not, and we suspect probably never will. But why not? Offering that option, at least in nominating elections, would provide another off-ramp for voters who need to let off steam and express displeasure.
Bothered by Biden? Tired of Trump? Voter options in Virginia on March 5 were (a) stay home; (b) vote for someone else, usually a longshot or candidate already out of the race; or (c) create mischief by participating in the primary of the other party. A “none of the above”/”uncommitted” option for this primary and, heck, for other nominating contests (for federal, state and local offices) is not such a bad idea.
The logistics probably wouldn’t work in general elections, of course, although the prospect of leaving elected offices vacant if no candidate can beat “none” on the ballot would have appeal to those of curmudgeonly tendencies.
