Fact Check: "Ranked choice voting is already used in two states and dozens of cities."
What We Know
Ranked choice voting (RCV) is an electoral system that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference rather than selecting just one. This system is designed to enhance voter engagement and reduce the need for runoff elections. As of June 2025, RCV is indeed utilized in several states and cities across the United States. Specifically, it is officially used in two states: Maine and Alaska, where it is applied in various elections including federal and state races (Ballotpedia). Additionally, numerous cities, such as New York City, Minneapolis, and Cambridge, have adopted RCV for local elections (National Conference of State Legislatures).
Analysis
The claim that "ranked choice voting is already used in two states and dozens of cities" is accurate but requires some clarification. While it is true that RCV is implemented in two states—Maine and Alaska—this does not encompass the full extent of its use across the country. The term "dozens of cities" is somewhat vague but is supported by the fact that RCV is employed in numerous municipalities, including major cities like New York City, which uses it in its primary elections (advocate.nyc.gov).
However, the reliability of the sources must be considered. Ballotpedia is a well-regarded resource for election-related information and provides comprehensive tracking of voting legislation (Ballotpedia). The National Conference of State Legislatures also offers credible insights into state laws regarding RCV (National Conference of State Legislatures). Both sources are reputable and provide a balanced view of the current state of ranked choice voting across the U.S.
Despite the positive aspects of RCV, there are also challenges. For instance, some states have moved to ban RCV, indicating a contentious debate surrounding its implementation (Ballotpedia). This context is crucial for understanding the broader landscape of RCV in the U.S.
Conclusion
The claim that "ranked choice voting is already used in two states and dozens of cities" is Partially True. While it accurately identifies the use of RCV in two states, the phrase "dozens of cities" could be misleading without additional context regarding the specific cities and the varying applications of RCV. Overall, the statement holds merit but lacks the nuance necessary to fully represent the complexities of RCV's implementation.
Sources
- Ranked Choice Voting Explained - advocate.nyc.gov
- Election legislation tracking: Ranked-choice voting - Ballotpedia
- Brief Ranked Choice Voting - National Conference of State Legislatures
- Thirteen states have now banned ranked-choice voting as municipalities decide on whether to adopt it - Ballotpedia
