Why declate party affiliation in primary?

I wish someone could tell me why in the upcoming primary elections at the county level, I have to declare a party affiliation to receive the proper ballot?

Should a candidate's opinion on issues such as immigration, gay marriage or abortion have any bearing on his ability to perform up to the expectations of their electors? Assuming that party platform has no bearing on elections at this level,wouldn't my constitutional right to vote be better served if I could vote on multiple primary ballots?

I have decided that it would be in my best interests in Kane County to cross my traditional "party lines" and support Ken Shepro for Kane County board chairman. If some of me peers want to call me a traitor then I say guilty as charged. Send me to the gallows. But I ask, who should it be to cut me down, a Republican or a Democrat?

Josanne Maritato

Gilberts