Ranked choice voting can help create stronger political parties

Fair Vote -  Although increasing gridlock and polarization have fueled rising anti-party sentiment among Americans, political parties remain a vital part of modern democracy. Parties give voters information about their choices, organize to win elections, and help elected officials govern when in office. Therefore, reformers should consider how to make parties healthier rather than simply weakening them – that is, to better align the incentives of parties with the needs of voters. 

Ranked choice voting (RCV) is a reform that can strengthen  political parties while also centering voters. RCV gives voters the option to rank candidates in order of preference. If a voter’s first choice can’t win, their vote counts for their next choice. 

When used in party primaries, RCV strengthens nominees and helps political parties put their best foot forward in the general election. When used in general elections, RCV encourages parties to engage in broader voter outreach and build deeper connections with local communities. RCV also provides smaller parties new opportunities to organize and elevate their own candidates without playing “spoiler.”