This article advocates for Santa Clara County to adopt ranked choice voting (RCV) for local elections, citing its benefits in increasing voter turnout, reducing negative campaigning, and encouraging broader representation.
As we enter a polarizing presidential election, we have a chance locally to cut down the negative rhetoric and improve our democracy.
RCV eliminates the low-turnout spring primary and dramatically increases participation — specifically among people of color and young people. We can give voters greater choice and encourage candidates to reach out to folks beyond their traditional “base,” bringing our community together and reducing toxic political campaigning.
Over the last quarter-century, we’ve been jumped in line by five Bay Area cities that have successfully implemented RCV. Last year, the governor signed a bill allowing Santa Clara County to do the same. And a recent poll shows thatIn an RCV election, voters rank candidates in order of preference — first, second and so on. If a candidate receives a majority of first choices, they win. If not, an “instant runoff” takes place. The candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated.
And the campaign dynamic improves for candidates, too — they must build a majority coalition of voters to win instead of just attacking their opponents.
Ranked Choice Voting RCV Democracy Elections Voter Turnout
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