Federal Judge Overturns New Jersey's Unique Ballot Design, Potentially Upending State's Political Landscape

A federal judge has ruled that New Jersey must change its primary ballot design, which favored party-backed candidates, following a lawsuit by Democratic Representative Andy Kim and two congressional candidates. The current ballot design, used in 19 of the state's 21 counties, placed endorsed candidates in a prominent column, giving them an advantage. The judge ordered a new ballot design organized by office sought, with a randomized system to give each candidate an equal chance. This decision could significantly impact the state's political system and has been hailed as a victory for fairer, more democratic politics in New Jersey.