Research Hub

Transforming the Vote

The Center for Election Science

Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) is often promoted as an alternative to Plurality Voting with the aim of enhancing democratic representation. As RCV gains traction in various jurisdictions such as Alaska, Maine, New York, and San Francisco its impact on minority communities has become a key topic of research and debate. While the adoption and awareness of RCV continue to grow, scholars are raising concerns about its effectiveness in achieving improved representation and equity. Some studies have shown that RCV often fails to meet these objectives, particularly for underrepresented minority groups. As a result, there is a growing need to critically evaluate RCV's limitations and explore alternative voting methods that may better promote fair representation. One promising alternative is Approval Voting, which could offer a more equitable solution, particularly for minority voters. For a deeper analysis, read our meta-analysis of RCV.