Boston Council Advances Ranked-Choice Voting Amid Turmoil

The Boston City Council has approved a petition to implement ranked-choice voting (RCV) in municipal elections, pending approval by Mayor Michelle Wu, the state Legislature, and city voters in a referendum. The measure, led by Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, aims to reduce polarization, encourage coalition-building, and increase voter engagement, but faces concerns over voter confusion and election department challenges. The vote comes amid heightened scrutiny of the council as Councilor Tania Fernandes Anderson, who pleaded guilty to federal corruption charges, remains in office though stripped of committee assignments. Opponents such as Councilor Ed Flynn caution against adding complexity to the electoral process during a period of mistrust. The proposal follows a failed 2020 statewide RCV ballot initiative that saw majority support in Boston. Other cities, including Denham Springs, are also exploring electoral reforms to improve representation and accountability.