PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — Opponents of a constitutional amendment that would remove candidates' party affiliations from South Dakota primary and general election ballots say the measure is a plan to reduce transparency at the polls.

Top Republicans including Gov. Dennis Daugaard, U.S. Sen. John Thune and U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem are opposing the amendment. Opposition group chairman Will Mortenson says it takes information away from voters.

But supporters say the measure would help broaden the voter base participating in the political process.

If approved by a simple majority in the November election, the amendment would establish a nonpartisan primary that would send the top vote-getters to the general election. It wouldn't apply to presidential races.

Supporter Rick Knobe says the proposal would boost the quality of candidates and dialogue to get better governance.

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