Why were nonpartisan elections adopted for city elections in the early twentieth century?

Nonpartisan elections were adopted for city elections in the early twentieth century primarily to undermine the influence and power of big-city political machines. During this time, political machines were known for their corrupt practices, patronage, and control over the political process, often aligning closely with specific political parties. By removing party affiliations from the election process, it became more challenging for these machines to wield their traditional power.

The intention behind nonpartisan elections was to encourage a political environment that was more focused on the candidates' individual merits, ideas, and policies, rather than their party labels. This shift aimed to create a more transparent and accountable electoral process, where voters could make more informed choices based solely on the qualifications and platforms of the candidates. Consequently, nonpartisan elections were seen as a reform measure designed to reduce corruption and enhance the integrity of local governance.