Caucusing at Needham this year was lively. And packed. Three rooms held a variety of neighbors: college students and 40-year-olds attending their first caucus, devout Democrats, new Democrats, young parents and retired couples.

And though the rooms were filled to the brim, many were absent. We missed seeing students who needed to work, military personnel overseas and parents who couldn’t find a babysitter.

Caucuses were designed as a grassroots entryway into the election. Folks sat at tables in a school gym or church hall, hashed out their differences about candidates, then voted on their preference. Many attendees had not heard much about the candidates before that evening, so happily absorbed ideas presented before making their choice.

But much has changed. Social media gives people easy access to more information. They have held their political discussions and friendly debates many times before caucus night, arriving at the site armed with opinion, ready to vote.

In 2014, Colorado embarked on a statewide mail-in ballot initiative. For many, it was a godsend, for they didn’t have to take off work, call a babysitter or find a ride to the polling place. Pondering was done at the kitchen table with family, friends or in total silence. The only constraint was delivering the ballot within the voting window of time.

What if, during at least presidential elections, Colorado had a primary instead of a caucus, giving everyone a voice in the election? Money spent on June primaries could be used in the March primary; taxpayers would incur no further expense. All voices could be heard, Colorado would have a say in the presidential election, and national attention could focus on Western issues, such as water and transportation.

Any process that includes more voters than it excludes, encourages participation and gives Colorado a strong presence in the election should be considered. Primaries allow more Coloradoans to have their voices heard in a vital part of our political process.

Barbara McLachlan

Durango

Editor’s note: Barbara McLachlan is a Democratic candidate for state representative in House District 59, which includes Durango.