Why Ranked Choice Voting Fails the Test of Fairness and Democracy

By Christy Narsi |

This November, Arizona voters will encounter Proposition 140, known as the Make Elections Fair Arizona Act, on their ballots. If approved, it would implement a Ranked-Choice Voting (RCV) system, allowing voters to rank candidates by preference. Proponents argue that this approach encourages candidates to engage with a broader voter base, independent of party lines. They believe it can free voters from the constraints of partisan primaries.

However, the question remains: will this truly enhance fairness in Arizona elections?

While RCV appears to offer a fairer voting method, it complicates the electoral process, often resulting in opaque vote counting and atypical election outcomes. In traditional voting, a voter selects their preferred candidate. Under RCV, if no candidate secures over 50 percent of first-place votes, a series of closed-door instant runoffs begin. The candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their supporters’ votes are redistributed based on second choices. This elimination continues until a majority winner is declared, raising concerns about transparency and legitimacy.

Bipartisan agreement exists on the importance of every vote counting, yet RCV may undermine this by fostering confusion and ballot drops. Jennifer C. Braceras from the Independent Women’s Law Center critiques RCV, stating it can lead to unexpected results, such as a candidate winning without substantial first-choice support. Rather than promoting democratic principles, RCV opens the door for manipulation, allowing candidates to dilute the competition by introducing lesser-known opponents.

A study examining New York City’s elections revealed high rates of ballot errors in RCV scenarios, particularly among communities with lower educational attainment, income levels, and higher minority populations. These findings suggest RCV may disenfranchise vulnerable voter groups.

Efforts should instead focus on simplifying the voting process and expanding access for all Arizonans. RCV does the opposite, complicating the mechanics of voting and reducing transparency. The foundational principle of democracy rests on a straightforward voting method: one person, one vote. RCV undermines this by permitting some voters to feel their ballots carry more weight while others may find their choices ineffective.

The complexity inherent in RCV risks alienating voters and reducing civic engagement, posing a genuine threat to the integrity of our democratic processes.

Christy Narsi resides in Surprise, AZ, and serves as the National Chapter Director at the Independent Women’s Network (IWN). She is dedicated to empowering women and positively impacting their communities.