Who Should Kamala Harris Pick As VP? RCV Voters Weigh In!
Drumroll, please... 🥁 We’re thrilled to announce the results of our recent ranked-choice voting experiment to determine who YOU think should be Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate. Thanks a…
Two of Maine’s congressional races will use ranked-choice voting in November
Two of the three congressional races on Maine ballots in November will use ranked-choice voting, which has impacted the outcome of some recent elections.
Skokie considers ranked choice voting, term limits referendums
After debating how two referendum questions should be written, Skokie’s Village Board moved closer to voting on whether to place them on the ballot for the Nov. 5 election.
Evanston council backs ranked choice voting ordinance
Evanston City Council votes to implement ranked choice voting for April 2025 municipal elections, despite concerns from the Cook County clerk's office.
When Portland voters select a new city council in November, they will have the option to rank their choices in order of preference through ranked-choice voting.
Is ranked-choice voting a good idea for Boston elections? City Council President Louijeune thinks so.
Though a ballot measure to implement ranked-choice voting in Massachusetts failed statewide in 2020, more than 60 percent of Boston voters supported the idea.
How ranked choice voting is bringing Alaska politics back to the center
In a sharp departure from recent sessions, both sides of the aisle were patting themselves on the back for what they had accomplished after adjourning.
Friends, RCV enthusiasts, countrymen! We have exciting news. RCV day is less than two weeks away! You might be wondering, “what’s RCV day?” Well, we in the RCV world have…
Proponents of a bipartisan bill to implement top-five primaries and instant runoff voting in Wisconsin congressional races argued the change would ensure the candidates with the broadest appeal end up…
Roughly 50 American voting jurisdictions have now moved to a ranked choice voting system, and it's shaping up to be one of the political subplots of 2024.
Bennet, King Reintroduce Bill to Promote Ranked Choice Voting
Senators Michael Bennet and Angus King reintroduced the Voter Choice Act to support adoption of a ranked choice voting (RCV) model for elections, also known as an “instant runoff.”
Bipartisan Group of Wisconsin Lawmakers Propose Ranked-Choice Voting and Top-Five Primaries
A bipartisan group of Wisconsin lawmakers is reviving a proposal to implement ranked-choice voting and nonpartisan blanket primaries in the battleground state
Group looks to promote ranked choice voting in Montana
Volunteers with Ranked Choice Voting Montana are looking to raise awareness and support for a major shift in state election procedures they say would create a more balanced, representative and…
Sen. Lisa Murkowski: Alaska’s Final Four Voting System Gives Voters Real Choice
US Sen. Lisa Murkowski says nonpartisan primaries and ranked choice voting are a good thing for Alaska elections and should be considered in other states.
Ranked-Choice Voting and Open Primaries Discussed as Constitutional Matters
Proponents and opponents of the ballot initiative known as the Make All Votes Count Act of 2024 converged to weigh in on the question of its suitability.
Primary election candidates sometimes win by slim margins in Pennsylvania, prompting some state lawmakers to find new ways to ensure winners secure broader support from voters.
Oregon lawmakers send ranked choice voting proposal to November 2024 ballot
The Oregon Legislature on Sunday's final day of the session passed House Bill 2004, which puts a proposal to move to ranked choice voting for federal and statewide races on…
Ranked-choice voting is simply a better and easier way to handle our crowded presidential primary field than traditional plurality voting. It is an idea whose time has come.
Nonpartisan democracy reform nonprofit UpVote Virginia encouraged voters from Charlottesville and Albemarle County to learn about ranked choice voting.
Alaska Election System Helped More Independents Win Office
Ranked choice voting and open primaries likely boosted political diversity and representation in the new Alaska legislature, specifically for Independents.
Ballot initiative may bring major changes to DC voting
Voting could radically change D.C. if a proposed ballot initiative for the 2024 general election is passed, implementing ranked choice voting and opening party primaries to independent voters.
The fastest growing democratic reform comes to Virginia
Those of us who dislike the nastiness of campaigns might like a reform taking root nationwide. Twenty-eight states now report places where ranked-choice voting is the rule.
Citizen Data: Most Voters Want to Rank Their Presidential Primary Choices
Citizen Data’s polling shows that interest in RCV not only exists across party lines, but social demographics as well, including age, ethnicity, and education level.
How would ranked-choice voting change the Philly mayor’s race?
Advocates say RCV produces more “consensus” winners — candidates preferred by at least half the electorate, even if they’re not everyone’s first choice.
Bipartisan group calls for overhauling RI elections
A bipartisan group of prominent Rhode Islanders announced Wednesday a new push to change how the state conducts its primary elections for statewide races.
Ranked-choice voting in Texas? One representative wants to make it a reality
A state representative from Austin is looking to transform the way local elections are held, calling to shift to a growing process called ranked-choice voting.
Yalies, local groups push for ranked-choice voting
Under a newly proposed bill, the state would adopt a system of ranked-choice voting for state and federal elections, a policy supported by Governor Ned Lamont.
Andrew Yang back in South Carolina this month to rally for ranked-choice voting
A coalition of election reformers, including former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang, will urge SC lawmakers to consider ranked-choice voting.
Following this year’s midterm election results, Seattle has voted to adopt a new voting system that will alter the political landscape of local elections.
Ranked-choice voting can improve presidential primaries
The authors explore the history of RCV, describe the systems presently used to conduct presidential primaries and explore how RCV could improve outcomes for both the Democratic and Republican parties.
This November marked the first general election using Alaska’s “top four” format, and it’s already making good on its promise to create a healthier political culture.
Ranked-Choice Voting Backed in Midterm May Help “Crash-Proofing Our Democracy”
Voters in Nevada and a handful of cities across the United States appear poised to expand the use of ranked-choice voting in the aftermath of Tuesday’s midterm elections.
Ranked-choice voting could spice up crowded Oakland mayor election
Can’t decide on just one candidate from the 10 running to be the city’s next mayor after Libby Schaaf leaves office? This year, you can give a nod to half…
Alaska Supreme Court releases opinion upholding constitutionality of ranked-choice voting
In January, the Alaska Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of Ballot Measure 2, also referred to as “ranked choice voting”, which was voted into law in 2020.
We have urged cities, particularly North Charleston, to ensure their municipal elections reward candidates with the broadest base of support rather than simply whoever gets the most votes on Election…
Albuquerque leaders are slated to take a second look at ranked choice voting, with Mayor Tim Keller backing a new proposal to change the way city voters mark their ballots.
While opening up the primary system will improve the viability of third-party and independent candidates, this reform would be insufficient on its own.
Ranked choice voting is gaining ground across America. In August, Alaska ran its first election using the method, joining Maine, New York City and many smaller communities.
Connecticut makes a case for ranked choice in elections
With an endorsement from Governor Lamont, a Democrat, and an open mind from his Republican challenger, Bob Stefanowski, RCV is doubly worth discussing during this election campaign.
Both parties oppose November’s ranked-choice ballot initiative
Both Democratic and Republican parties seem to oppose the November ballot initiative that would implement open primaries and ranked-choice voting. The group behind the initiative thinks that’s a good sign.
Challenger raps incumbent for dragging feet on ranked-choice voting
While a majority of the County Board seem to like the concept, board members have dragged their feet on implementation, citing logistical intricacies and cost concerns.
Bruce Poliquin stiff-arms ranked-choice voting for 2nd race in a row
Bruce Poliquin led in the first round of voting, but Democratic challenger Jared Golden ousted him after two liberal-leaning independents were eliminated.
Nevada’s GOP has more to worry about than ranked-choice voting
With Nevada’s voters soon to weigh in on the idea of ranked-choice voting, Alaska’s recent experimentation with the method offers some real-world lessons for political parties.
Commentary: Will ranked choice voting improve political system?
Consensus-building localities like Fredericksburg, Stafford, and Spotsylvania seeking more independent, Democrat, or Republican participation should use ranked choice voting.
Republicans rage against ranked choice voting after Alaska election
Republicans are fuming about ranked choice and “jungle” primary voting systems after Democrat Mary Peltola won a special House election in Alaska over former Gov. Sarah Palin (R) and Republican…
These efforts to depolarize the US are well underway
Here's what one expert had to say about ranked-choice voting, nonpartisan primaries and other efforts to take control of primaries away from political parties.
Alaska’s US House candidates split on new voting system ahead of 1st ranked choice election
Nick Begich wants to return to the old system, and Sarah Palin said the ranked choice voting framework should be changed. Mary Peltola hopes more moderate candidates will be elected…
City Council approves referendum on ranked-choice voting for November ballot
City Council approved a referendum Monday that will let Evanston residents vote this November on whether to adopt ranked-choice voting in future elections.
Nevadans may be asked to approve “Ranked-Choice” voting
Group looking to put initiative on the Nevada ballot which calls for ranked choice voting for federal, constitutional offices, and state races here in Nevada.
"In the primary elections, we have a limited choice, basically between candidates from the two parties, and then us deciding between the lesser of the two evils," says Cleveland, Okla.,
Supreme Court: Ranked-choice voting can go to ballot
The Nevada Supreme Court ruled on three major election cases Tuesday that reshape the November ballot, allowing an initiative proposing open primaries and ranked-choice voting to proceed while voiding another…
Should Cedar Rapids adopt ranked choice voting system?
The Charter Review Commission meets today to consider electoral reform in the city's governing document. Here’s why advocates are focusing on Cedar Rapids for their ranked choice voting push.
The “Small Bites” Approach to Advancing Ranked Choice Voting in Texas
Some states present a bigger challenge because reform advocates have to convince state lawmakers to change a system explicitly designed to benefit them.
The Real Power of Preferential Voting in Australia
Preferential voting has been harnessed effectively to create a change that invested actors – in major political parties and the media – find disconcerting.
Scott paves way for ranked choice voting in Burlington council elections
Gov. Phil Scott on Thursday allowed a charter change to become law without his signature, empowering the city to move forward with ranked choice voting.
Fight over ranked choice voting in Nevada precedes initiative making its way onto ballot
A proposed ballot initiative seeks to amend the Nevada Constitution to establish open top-five primaries and ranked-choice voting for general elections, but it isn’t without its critics.
Ranked-choice voting set to be used in some special elections
Hawaii is set to use ranked-choice voting for the first time after state law‑
makers passed a bill that would test the voting method in certain winner-take-all special elections.
Virginia GOP Using Ranked Choice Voting in Some Primaries
Northern Virginia Republicans will start casting ballots this weekend to nominate candidates for Congress, and in some cases, voters will use ranked choice ballots.
Ranked choice voting allows voters the option to rank as many candidates as they like in order of preference. It makes local democracy fair, easy and fun.
Richmond among first Virginia localities considering move to ranked-choice voting for local races
RICHMOND — Voters in Richmond could become the first in Virginia to pick their local elected officials by ranked-choice voting when all nine City Council seats are up for reelection
Did Ranked-Choice Voting Make It Easier for Two Republicans to Back Ketanji Brown Jackson?
There is a good case to be made that the election systems in Alaska and Maine made it easier for Murkowski and Collins to show support for Biden’s Supreme Court…
Alaska’s first ranked-choice election will be a special vote to replace Rep. Don Young
Dates have not yet been determined for a special primary election and a special general election; the winner would serve until the winner of November’s general election is seated.
How to reform Idaho’s closed primary: The case for a ranked-choice voting system
Ammon Mayor Sean Coletti, a Republican lawyer, argues the 2011 court decision that resulted in Idaho’s closed primary system was based on flawed reasoning. The system recently adopted by Alaska…
‘I don’t want this to die tonight:’ Flagstaff City Council discusses ranked choice voting
In response to a 2019 citizen’s petition, Flagstaff City Council discussed introducing ranked choice voting (RCV) into city elections during Tuesday’s work session.
Legislation would allow ranked-choice voting in Michigan. In one city, its already happening.
Legislation introduced by Michigan House members would allow communities to implement a ranked-choice voting system where voters rank candidates on the ballot by order of their preference.
As a state representative, I’m supporting a bill to introduce NH to Ranked Choice Voting (RCV). It’s an enabling bill that would allow municipalities to opt in to use RCV…
Ranking the Vote Equals Strengthening Our Democracy
More Voice DC is a nonprofit dedicated to expanding the voice of Washingtonians in the political process and making sure that D.C. residents are educated about how to most effectively…
Instant runoff voting, favored in Memphis, banned in Tennessee
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee lawmakers passed a ban Monday against instant runoff voting in elections, a move that seeks to end a long-running legal dispute between state election officials…
Ranked choice voting has been gaining popularity. Now Tennessee lawmakers want to get rid of it.
Most Tennessee counties use what’s called the first-past-the-post voting system, but as another option, ranked choice or instant runoff voting, gains popularity, some state lawmakers want to get rid of…
Krist Novoselić: Ranked choice voting improves representation for all
Lawmakers in Olympia are considering bills to increase voters’ options on how to elect local government. SB 5584 and HB 1156 allow local jurisdictions the option to use ranked choice…
NYC held its first ranked choice voting primary election in June 2020, and after the November election, the nation's largest city got its most diverse city government in history.
Seventy percent of Americans believe that the country is in crisis. I am one of them. The political divide beneath that belief has multiple dimensions, but the integrity of our…
You walk into the voting booth with a conundrum on your mind: the electoral field is crowded and your first-choice candidate might not win. You worry that by voting for…
Fredericksburg looking into ranked-choice voting for future city elections
The Fredericksburg City Council has directed city staff to research using a system where voters can rank their choices for elected local offices as early as 2023.
Utah’s H.B. 75 Proposes A New Strategy to Spread Ranked Choice Voting Across the State
While the shift to ranked choice voting is something that remains largely hypothetical, laws like Utah’s H.B. 75 make it an increasingly viable option.
MO Bipartisan Campaign Seeks to Switch to Ranked-Choice Voting
A ballot initiative in Missouri is seeking to change the way statewide elections are run. Currently, in the Show-Me State, there are party primaries in August, and voters choose between…
How Community Groups Can Shape Alaskas Success on Ranked Choice Voting
Democracy in the United States is becoming a fast-growing wilderness leading millions of Americans astray. The success of ranked choice systems could help determine how many return to the fold.
"Just follow the example of Alaska as they changed their voting laws to allow ranked choice voting, which incorporates instant runoffs," writes Cleveland, Oklahoma resident Cecil Sterne.
What is ranked choice voting? Hoboken first in NJ to approve it
The concept is similar to that of a runoff election, held when no candidate receives at least 50% of the original vote, but the difference is that this approach only…
Why Republicans, moderates see opportunity in ranked choice voting
Eric Adams, the Democratic mayor-elect of New York City, and Glenn Youngkin, the soon-to-be GOP governor of Virginia, earned their party nominations through ranked choice voting, an increasingly popular format…
MI House Democrats introduce legislation to allow ranked-choice voting
LANSING, Mich. - Michigan State Representatives introduced a new package of bills that aims to allow ranked-choice voting in Michigan municipal elections.
Ranked-choice voting works. New Jerseyans deserve to try it.
Politics is far from sexy, but it is through voting we can rebuild roads and bridges, counter climate change, and define the community in which we want to live.
Allowing ranked-choice voting in New Hampshire would be a savvy move for Republicans
Polling finds three-in-five Americans are “dissatisfied with the way democracy is working,” a figure that is stable across Republican and Democratic presidencies over the last decade.
Ranked-choice voting could come to front burner in 2022
With the 2021 election season a blissfully fading memory, it’s time to turn to 2022 – and the possibility that ranked-choice voting will be implemented for Arlington County Board races.
The Eureka City Council cast unanimous votes on two election-related items this week, including a major change to the way residents in Humboldt County’s largest...
Congressional special election shows the need for ranked choice voting
In 1992, as ever since, the Democratic primary was the decisive election in what is now Florida’s 20th Congressional District. Alcee Hastings won it in a runoff with 22,046 votes
Ranked-Choice Voting Would Change California’s Elections for Better
If Californians are tired of the chemical warfare of partisan politics, ranked choice voting could be the declaration of independence that brings the resistance together.
A record number of cities used ranked-choice voting this election. Will it help with inclusivity?
On Tuesday, a record number of voters cast their ballots using ranked-choice voting, a system that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference.
Ranked-choice voting racks up more wins on Election Day
It wasn't just candidates on the ballot across the country this week — in some places, the method for casting those votes was under consideration as well.
Salt Lake City to use ranked-choice voting for the first time in November election
| Megan Feeney ∙ Ballotpedia | The general election for Salt Lake City, Utah, is on Nov. 2. The election will be the first time the city uses a ranked-choice…
Ranked-choice voting is part of a ‘robust democracy,’ expert says
In the Nov. 2 local election, two Las Cruces City Council races – districts 3 and 5 – will be decided by ranked-choice voting (RCV), which gives voters a number…
Residents in nearly two dozen municipalities are receiving ballots that look a little different for next Tuesday’s election because of ranked-choice voting.
Metro briefs: Bloomington, Minnetonka roll out ranked-choice voting
Bloomington and Minnetonka will be among five Minnesota cities using ranked-choice voting when they implement it for the first time in the November election.
Boston can create more fair and inclusive city elections by eliminating the low-turnout September preliminary election and adopting ranked choice voting for its November general election instead.