Ranked Choice Voting Maryland

Why is Ranked Choice Voting Great for Maryland?

In ranked choice voting elections, the candidate who reflects the views of the widest number of voters wins. Even in crowded fields, similar candidates can compete without splitting votes. Whether Republican, Democrat, independent or third-party, voters never have to worry about the “spoiler effect.”

We rank things all the time and express our preferences when we are shopping, going out to eat, etc. Elections do not reflect how we make choices everyday.

Maryland is Ready!

Maryland is poised to expand better elections at the local, county, and state level. Our voting system is ready for ranked choice voting. Marylanders across the state are eager for more choice and a stronger voice in electing leaders.

RCV is a WIN-WIN for voters and candidates!

• Eliminate Spoiler Effect - Candidates do not need to worry that their campaign will help another candidate win by splitting the vote or being asked to “wait their turn."
• Fully Express Your Vote - When you have multiple candidates that you support, you can better express your intentions and preferences.
• End Non-Majority Winners - Ranked choice voting respects the will of the people and helps to elect the candidate preferred by a winning margin of voters.
• More Civil Campaigning - Candidates run competitive, yet civil campaigns to appeal to a broader base of voters.