Unique Method In Ranked Choice Voting

Unique Method In Ranked Choice Voting-

Ranked Choice Voting, also known for its common method Single Transferable Voting, is a must. It gives more option for voters.

One unique RCV method is the following.

1. Voters have the option of listing their 2nd preference.

2. 2nd preference selections get one-half of the vote.

3. NOTA (None Of The Above) is an option for voters.

The candidate who has the highest vote totals would win the race. Giving value to 2nd Preference Votes at half-value would give an incentive for more people to run for office and for more people to vote. At the same time, it would not dilute the winning race totals. After all, a candidate elected to serve must have a significant percentage of 1st preference votes. The winning candidate does not necessarily have to have the highest number of 1st preference votes but he/she should come close. 

One reason why the optional second preference vote at half-value is needed is it de-polarizes races. It encourages a candidate to not disenfranchise voters who are unlikely to vote for that specific candidate as much. Another reason is it gives voters an incentive to do research on third parties and independents because they know that voting third-party and/or for independents is no longer a waste.

This method is a win-win situation. The drawbacks are minuscule compared to the benefits. It must be given consideration.