Mike Cantwell

Mike Cantwell lives in Arlington, Virginia. He is a community leader and political reform activist. Mike ran for the Arlington County Board as an Independent in 2021 and is the host of the Independents for America substack and podcast.

Why Presidential Primaries Keep Failing – and the Radical Reform That Could Save Them

According to a study conducted by Unite America, many Americans are dissatisfied with the presidential primary process, citing issues like exclusion of independent voters, low turnout, candidates moving to extremes, wasted votes, and the power of party insiders.

By Mike Cantwell

/ 4 Feb 2026

Why Presidential Primaries Keep Failing – and the Radical Reform That Could Save Them