How did the Progressives try to improve election politics and how successful were their reforms?

Progressives aimed to improve election politics through various reforms, including the introduction of the secret ballot, direct primaries, and initiatives and referendums, which aimed to reduce corruption and increase voter participation. They also advocated for the direct election of senators through the 17th Amendment. These reforms generally succeeded in making elections more democratic and transparent, leading to increased voter engagement and a reduction in political corruption. Overall, the Progressive Era significantly shaped modern electoral processes in the United States.