Ranked-Choice Voting Debate Gains National Attention

Ranked-choice voting (RCV) is gaining traction in various states, with Telluride, Colorado, having a long-standing history of implementing this voting method since 2008. The proposed statewide ordinance in Colorado would allow open primaries for state and federal offices, followed by ranked-choice voting in the general elections, aiming to ensure majority winners. Other states like Oregon and Nevada are also considering RCV, which proponents argue can lead to broader representation and decrease negative campaigning. Critics, however, warn about its complexity and potential delays in election results, pointing to issues experienced in New York City elections. In Missouri, a push is underway to prohibit RCV through Amendment 7, with arguments centering on the perceived complexity and the principle of one person, one vote. Meanwhile, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear advocates for a popular vote system for presidential elections, arguing it would enhance democracy by ensuring all votes are valued equally.