Why has there been so little attention paid to the problem of the "open" primary? I like Obama very much, but it is clear that he is leading in the delegate contest because Republicans and "independent" voters have been voting in the Democtatic Party primaries.

I have to admit that I once took advantage of the Republicans' open primary in Georgia to cast a vote for a candidate I was convinced could not win. My intent was to ensure a Democratic win in the general election. It is clear that large numbers of non-Democrats have been influencing the outcome of the Democratic primaries. Their intent is to ensure a Republican win in November by forcing the nomination of a non-viable candidate.

While I strongly believe it is essential to count every vote cast, I believe as strongly that the "open" primary system is a poison pill the Democratic Party has swallowed in the name of openness. The open primary concept must be reformed - it may already be too late this time.