California Democratic Party v. Jones

Summary

The Court held that California's blanket primary violates the First Amendment rights of political parties. Proposition 198 forces parties to associate with nonmembers to select nominees, severely burdening their associational freedom. The state interests asserted were not compelling or the law was not narrowly tailored. Justice Kennedy concurred; Justice Stevens dissented, arguing primaries are state action and citing the Elections Clause for federal offices.