Define: Choice Voting

Choice voting, also known as ranked-choice voting or preferential voting, is a voting system where voters rank candidates in order of preference. It allows voters to express their preferences for multiple candidates rather than just selecting one.

In choice voting, voters rank candidates in order of preference. During the counting process, if a candidate receives enough first-preference votes to meet a predetermined threshold, they are elected. If no candidate reaches the threshold, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated, and their votes are redistributed to the remaining candidates based on the voters’ next preferences. This process continues until all the seats are filled.

Choice voting promotes greater representation and diversity by allowing voters to support multiple candidates and ensuring that minority groups have a better chance of electing candidates who represent their interests. It also encourages candidates to campaign positively and build broad coalitions.

One potential disadvantage of choice voting is that it can be more complex for voters to understand and for election officials to administer. It may also require more time and resources for counting and tabulating the results.

Yes, choice voting is used in various countries and jurisdictions around the world, including Ireland, Australia, and several cities in the United States, such as San Francisco and Minneapolis.

Choice voting can be used for various types of elections, including local government elections, legislative elections, and even some presidential elections. However, its suitability may depend on the specific electoral system and legal framework of each jurisdiction.

No, choice voting does not eliminate the need for political parties. Candidates can still run as members of political parties and seek endorsements. However, choice voting allows voters to support candidates from multiple parties, promoting a more diverse and inclusive political landscape.

While choice voting aims to reduce strategic voting, it is still possible for voters to strategically rank candidates to maximize their preferred outcome. However, the complexity of the system makes it more challenging for strategic voting to have a significant impact.

Choice voting is designed to promote proportional representation, but it does not guarantee it. The outcome can still be influenced by factors such as the number of seats available and the distribution of voter preferences.

Yes, choice voting can be implemented at the national level, as demonstrated by countries like Ireland and Australia. However, its adoption would require significant changes to the electoral system and would likely face political and logistical challenges.