Introduction

Thank you for visiting Theory of Ranked Choice Voting. The goal of this website is to promote understanding of Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), including the different ways it can be designed, applied, and carried out. This includes everything from the different formats ballots can have that allow voters to rank candidates, and the tradeoffs involved with each format, to the many approaches to processing those ballots, and the rules that need to be set for those methods to work.

This site will examine ranked choice voting at multiple levels. At a broad level, we will explain how it works and what problems it is intended to address. At a practical level, we will look at common claims and criticisms, including which apply broadly, which apply only to certain methods, and which are based on misunderstandings. At a deeper level, we will explore the details behind how different approaches behave, and the tradeoffs they create.

People often talk about “RCV” as if it is one defined system. It is not. Different rules for processing the same set of ranked ballots can produce different results. Understanding those differences, and the tradeoffs behind them, is a central focus of this site. Ranked choice voting is often described as allowing voters to “vote their heart without wasting their vote.” This site will examine when that holds, and when it depends on the method used.

Concepts such as “polar” versus “compromise” in single-winner elections will be examined in depth. When a voter’s choice comes down to either A or B, and all other options are effectively wasted votes, we will call this a “polar” election.

The concepts of “balanced” versus “skewed” representation in elected bodies will also be examined. This site will explore RCV methodologies that allow voters to rank candidates beyond traditional territorial boundaries for an elected body, which can lead to more “balanced” rather than “skewed” representation, limiting the extent to which district lines (i.e., gerrymandering) can be drawn to shape outcomes and further skew representation.

This site is not part of any political movement. It is not affiliated with any campaign, party, or advocacy group. There is no intent to promote specific candidates or outcomes. To reinforce that independence, this site is not seeking donations, does not advertise, and does not monetize in any way. However, contributions through discussion are always welcome. Whether it’s a detailed opinion, a disagreement, or just a quick thought, feel free to share. Disagreements are welcome, and it’s always worth trying to find common ground.

Thanks again for visiting.