Field Manual To Ranked Choice Voting Digital Download (PDF)
Field Manual To Ranked Choice Voting: Lessons From The Last Frontier
This book provides a comprehensive critique of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) in the context of US elections. It presents the argument that RCV is detrimental to the democratic process in America. Through detailed analysis and case studies from various states and cities, the book explores the history, funding, implementation, and consequences of RCV.
Key themes include:
1. Historical Context and Implementation:
- The origins and adoption of RCV in places like Australia, Ireland, and various US cities.
- Detailed case studies from cities like San Francisco, Boulder, Aspen, and states like Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Missouri, Alaska, and more.
2. Claims and Counterclaims:
- Analysis of common claims by RCV advocates: it's better, cheaper, faster, increases turnout, promotes civility, and reduces spoilers and gaming in elections.
- Counterarguments and data showing potential drawbacks, including voter confusion, increased ballot errors, and false majority issues.
3. Funding and Influence:
- Examination of who funds RCV initiatives, highlighting significant out-of-state contributions and potential biases.
- The roles of organizations like FairVote, RepresentUs, and other advocacy groups.
4. Impact on Different Demographics:
- Investigation into how RCV affects various demographic groups, with a focus on potential disenfranchisement and increased ballot error rates among lower-income and historically marginalized communities.
5. Critiques from Political Figures:
- Statements from notable politicians like Governor Gavin Newsom and US Senator Tom Cotton, expressing concerns about RCV.
6. Practical Challenges and Experiences:
- Real-world examples of RCV's implementation, including issues faced in states like Alaska, where voter turnout dropped significantly after RCV was introduced.
- Analysis of software and logistical challenges in counting RCV ballots.
The book emphasizes a critical perspective on RCV, arguing that its complexity and potential for voter confusion undermine its supposed benefits. It advocates for more straightforward electoral systems that ensure clear and fair representation for all voters.
Field Manual To Ranked Choice Voting Digital Download (PDF)
Field Manual To Ranked Choice Voting: Lessons From The Last Frontier
This book provides a comprehensive critique of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) in the context of US elections. It presents the argument that RCV is detrimental to the democratic process in America. Through detailed analysis and case studies from various states and cities, the book explores the history, funding, implementation, and consequences of RCV.
Key themes include:
1. Historical Context and Implementation:
- The origins and adoption of RCV in places like Australia, Ireland, and various US cities.
- Detailed case studies from cities like San Francisco, Boulder, Aspen, and states like Maine, Massachusetts, New York, Missouri, Alaska, and more.
2. Claims and Counterclaims:
- Analysis of common claims by RCV advocates: it's better, cheaper, faster, increases turnout, promotes civility, and reduces spoilers and gaming in elections.
- Counterarguments and data showing potential drawbacks, including voter confusion, increased ballot errors, and false majority issues.
3. Funding and Influence:
- Examination of who funds RCV initiatives, highlighting significant out-of-state contributions and potential biases.
- The roles of organizations like FairVote, RepresentUs, and other advocacy groups.
4. Impact on Different Demographics:
- Investigation into how RCV affects various demographic groups, with a focus on potential disenfranchisement and increased ballot error rates among lower-income and historically marginalized communities.
5. Critiques from Political Figures:
- Statements from notable politicians like Governor Gavin Newsom and US Senator Tom Cotton, expressing concerns about RCV.
6. Practical Challenges and Experiences:
- Real-world examples of RCV's implementation, including issues faced in states like Alaska, where voter turnout dropped significantly after RCV was introduced.
- Analysis of software and logistical challenges in counting RCV ballots.
The book emphasizes a critical perspective on RCV, arguing that its complexity and potential for voter confusion undermine its supposed benefits. It advocates for more straightforward electoral systems that ensure clear and fair representation for all voters.