Some political scientists expressed concerns about the implications of binding primaries on the political system. While these primaries enhanced democratic participation by involving voters directly in presidential nominations, they also posed risks by diminishing the gatekeeping role of political parties. This shift could potentially undermine the checks and balances traditionally provided by party leadership, allowing less qualified or extremist candidates to emerge in the political arena.

This concern was articulated prior to the work of the McGovern–Fraser Commission, with experts warning that the new system might invite demagogues who could exploit voter emotions without the constraints of party loyalty. Such candidates, free from traditional party oversight, might engage in polarizing rhetoric or make unrealistic promises to gain support, thereby threatening the integrity of the electoral process.