Better Ballot Bulletin: October 1, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Hurricane Helene
I hope everyone is safe and if you don't have power that you will get it back shortly (I'm writing this newsletter using a hotspot. I'm grateful to have cell service). If you are in need of resources please reach out to the Red Cross of South Carolina or United Way of South Carolina. The United Way is also accepting donations for hurricane relief. Both are on the ground in our state.
Register to Vote
The window to register is about to close. Register in person at the local election office by October 4, close of business. If you register by mail, it can be post marked up to October 7. You can register online until October 6, 11:59pm online.
Great events to get plugged in!
Statewide Strategy Call: Oct 22, 6:30pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Letter to the Editor Training: Oct 7, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
(https://www.sightline.org/2024/09/13/maines-lessons-in-ranked-choice-voting/)
Plus:
Fewest Votes Wins: Plurality victories in 2024 primaries: FairVote
Ranked Choice Voting Bill Introduced in Congress: Independent Voter News and The Fulrum
Can Elections Ever Be Normal: 22 Nonprofit Leaders Have a Plan: The Chronicle of Philanthropy
IRV elections means there's a majority winner: FairVote
Idaho has RCV on the ballot. Here's how a local news station is educating voters about it: The Explainer and Revisiting Ranked Choice Voting, Viewer Comments
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
President, {{broadcaster.name}}
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Better Ballot Bulletin: September 15, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Ranked Choice Voting Act Introduced in Congress
Representatives Jamie Raskin (MD) and Don Beyer (VA) introduced the Ranked Choice Voting Act. This legislation would require instant runoff elections in all congressional primaries and general elections, giving voters more voice and more choice. Senator Peter Welch (VT) is introducing a companion bill in the Senate. For more: FairVote Action (X), Raskin's Press Release, FairVote Action (site)
Plus, Charlottesville officially passes IRV for their city. Wouldn't it be nice if SC municipalities had this flexibility...
For more on Charlottesvilles: FairVote, Cville Right Now (Mayor), Cville Right Now (City Council Approves)
SC's Path Forward
While Virginia cities have the option of simply adopting IRV, SC municipalities only have three options available to them and we need to go through the legislature to allow IRV to be the fourth option. That means that we need to convince the legislature. How do we do that?
Contact your Mayor. Mayors are the top officials within municipalities and we need their voices of support for IRV. We're launching a mayoral outreach campaign. We're asking that you reach out to your mayors with a letter and follow up call. In this folder are letters to send to mayors along with a one-pager that explains the basics of IRV. Any questions? Just let us know by emailing [email protected] or call/text 803-881-6027. We'd also love to know that you've sent it in so we can follow up.
Get the people on our side. We find that when people hear about IRV, they like it. The more people who know, the more people who will tell their legislators that this is something they want for their municipalities. The people's voice can win. That means canvassing and speaking at other organization's meetings. Do you know of a great place to canvass or an organization that needs to hear our message? Let us know by contacting [email protected]
Great events to get plugged in!
Canvassing at the Irmo Okra Strut: Sept 29. Join us for tabling at the Imro Okra Strut Festival. We'll bring the clipboards and pens, you bring the enthusiasm and smiles! We'll be to talking to future supporters about the benefits of instant runoff voting. Please sign up for a shift today.
Statewide Strategy Call: Sept 24, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Letter to the Editor Training: Oct 7, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
(https://news.ballotpedia.org/2024/09/02/colorado-becomes-sixth-state-to-add-ranked-choice-voting-question-to-nov-ballot/)
Plus:
Colorado to vote on ranked-choice voting, eliminating partisan primaries: Colorado Public Radio
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
The 2024 Presidential Primaries and Ranked Choice Voting: FairVote
Building a Science of Democracy Repair: Ted Talk
Jesse Sumner: Open primary and ranked-choice voting is good for conservatives, Wasilla, and Alaska: Must Read Alaska
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
Better Ballot Bulletin: September 1, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Charlottesville Passes IRV
Charlottesville is the second Virginia locality to vote favorably on IRV/RCV. While it needs to pass a second reading in September, it seems likely. Read more or watch more.
And it's on the ballot in DC.
SC's Path Forward
While Virginia cities have the option of simply adopting IRV, SC municipalities only have three options available to them and we need to go through the legislature to allow IRV to be the fourth option. That means that we need to convince the legislature. How do we do that?
Get the people on our side. We find that when people hear about IRV, they like it. The more people who know, the more people who will tell their legislators that this is something they want for their municipalities. The people's voice can win. That means canvassing and speaking at other organization's meetings. Do you know of a great place to canvass or an organization that needs to hear our message? Let us know by contacting [email protected]
Contact your Mayor. Mayors are the top officials within municipalities and we need their voices of support for IRV. We're launching a mayoral outreach campaign. We're asking that you reach out to your mayors with a letter and follow up call. In this folder are letters to send to mayors along with a one-pager that explains the basics of IRV. Any questions? Just let us know by emailing [email protected] or call/text 803-881-6027. We'd also love to know that you've sent it in so we can follow up.
Great events to get plugged in!
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Canvassing at the Irmo Okra Strut: Sept 29. Join us for tabling at the Imro Okra Strut Festival. We'll bring the clipboards and pens, you bring the enthusiasm and smiles! We'll be to talking to future supporters about the benefits of instant runoff voting.
Letter to the Editor Training: Sept 2, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Statewide Strategy Call: Sept 24, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Plus:
David Daley of FairVote wrote a new book: Antidemocratic. Check out Bakari Sellers' interview and what FairVote had to say.
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Not sure about ranked choice voting? League of Women Voters explains its appeal: Independent Voter News
If You Can Keep It: the realities of ranked choice voting: 1a
Five, possible six, states will vote on ranked-choice voting measures this fall - the most in a single year: Ballotpedia News
/r How's Ranked Choice going? The people of Maine speak: Reddit
Five ways ranked choice voting could help climate action: Sightline Institute
We can break the partisan cycle by unrigging the system: Fulcrum
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
Better Ballot Bulletin: August 15, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
Statewide Strategy Call: Aug 27, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Canvassing at the Soda City Market: Aug 31, 10am. Join us for canvassing at the Soda City Market in Columbia. We'll bring the clipboard and pens, you bring the enthusiasm and smiles! In addition to talking to future supporters.
Letter to the Editor Training: Sept 2, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Plus:
Biden made the case for ranked choice voting: Fulcrum
Opinion: Instant runoff voting can change elections for the better: Daniel Island News
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Spoilers are in the news and highlighting instant runoff voting: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver and Democracy TAKES
Does ranked choice voting increase voter turnout and mobilization?: Science Direct
Andrew Yang Q&A: Presidential Shakeup, The Case for a Third Party, and the Need for Better Elections: Independent Voter News
DC Board of Elections OKs placing ranked choice voting, opening primaries to independents on ballot: WTOP News
Who hates ranked choice voting?: Willamette Week
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
President, Better Ballot SC
Better Ballot Bulletin: August 1, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Letter to the Editor Training: Aug 5, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Statewide Strategy Call: Aug 27, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Canvassing at the Soda City Market: Aug 31, 10am. Join us for canvassing at the Soda City Market in Columbia. We'll bring the clipboard and pens, you bring the enthusiasm and smiles! In addition to talking to future supporters.
(https://democracysos.substack.com/p/harris-vs-trump-how-the-us-can-survive)
Plus:
Disagree Better: Group of Governors Have Worked to Cool Down the Political Rhetoric: Independent Voter News
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Commentary: Ranked Choice Voting, open primaries can help bring civility back to politics: Post and Courier
Represent Women just released their Gender Party Index. Read the full report and the South Carolina one pager. Remember, IRV is a solution to help fix this problem.
Maine will use instant runoff voting in November for the President. Read More: Maine Morning Star and Independent Voter News
Possible Kamala Harris VP picks examined in new ranked choice poll: FairVote
We want to hear from you!
Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
Better Ballot Bulletin: July 15, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
Quarterly Board Meeting: July 17, 5pm. Join us at our quarterly board meeting where we'll discuss regular business. If you would like to contribute or serve on the board, please email us at [email protected].
Statewide Strategy Call: July 23, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Letter to the Editor Training: Aug 5, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
(https://mathematics-democracy-institute.org/deficiencies-in-recent-research-on-ranked-choice-voting-ballot-error-rates/)
Plus:
I was on Representative Jermaine Johnson's podcast talking up IRV! Check it out!
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Interview: The Upcoming Election with US Rep Mary Peltola: KNOM
Over 40,000 signatures submitted for RCV initiative in Washington, DC: FairVote
We want to hear from you!
Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
Better Ballot Bulletin: July 1, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Runoff Round Up
63% of possible legislative races that could have gone to a runoff did. The trends remain the same. Voter participation dropped (by up to 58% in Republican Senate 26 and 46% in Republican Senate 12) and it cost too much money. We're still waiting on how much this cost counties this time around, but as an example, in 2022, Greenville spent a total of $111, 068 with $65,911 being reimbursed by the state (but that's still tax payer money).
Here are the results of the SC Congressional and Legislative runoffs:
|
Race |
Winner |
||
|
CD 3: R |
Mark Burns |
Sheri Biggs |
Sheri Biggs |
|
State Senate 6: R |
Jason Elliott |
Ben Carper |
Jason Elliott |
|
State Senate 10: R |
Billy Garrett |
Charles Bumgardner |
Billy Garrett |
|
State Senate 12: R |
Lee Bright |
Roger Allen Nutt |
Roger Allen nutt |
|
State Senate 22: D |
Ivory Thigpen |
Overture Walker |
Overture Walker |
|
State Senate 23: R |
Katrina Shealy |
Carlisle Kennedy |
Carlisle Kennedy |
|
State Senate 26: R |
Chris Smith |
Jason Guerry |
Jason Guerry |
|
State Senate 35: D |
Jeffery Graham |
Austin Floyd |
Jeffery Graham |
|
State Senate 35: R |
Mike Jones |
Lindsay Agostini |
Mike Jones |
|
State House 9: R |
Blake Sanders |
James Galyean |
Blake Sanders |
|
State House 28: R |
Chris Huff |
Kerri J Smith |
Chris Huff |
|
State House 34: R |
Sarita Edgerton |
JoAnne LaBounty |
Sarita Edgerton |
|
State House 93: D |
Jerry Govan |
Johnny Felder |
Jerry Govan |
Great events to get plugged in!
Letter to the Editor Training: July 1, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Canvassing at the Soda City Market: July 13, 10am. Join us for canvassing at the Soda City Market in Columbia. We'll bring the clipboard and pens, you bring the enthusiasm and smiles! In addition to talking to future supporters.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Statewide Strategy Call: July 23, 7pm. Our monthly meeting are the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Plus:
They loved it!
Exit Poll: 88% of Arlington Voters Say Ranked Choice Voting is Easy, 67% Would Like to Use It in Future Elections: FairVote
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
A move to instant runoff voting would reduce costs and end state's 'archaic' system: The State
Spoiler alert: It's time for ranked choice voting for presidential elections: Democracy SOS
Georgia had runoffs too! Democracy Digest: It's Runoff Election Day: Atlantic Civic Circle
We want to hear from you!
Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
Municipal Option Bill
To be introduced again by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
President, {{broadcaster.name}}
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Better Ballot Bulletin: June 15, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
Tabling at the Juneteenth Freedom Festival: TODAY. Join us for canvassing at the Juneteenth Freedom Festival in Columbia. We'll be speaking to festival attendees about the benefits of instant runoff voting. We will also be registering voters and providing information about the upcoming runoff. Sign up for a shift and come on down. The more the merrier!
Statewide Strategy Call:June 25, 7pm. By popular demand, we're changing our monthly meeting to the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Letter to the Editor Training: July 1, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
SPLIT
Other Events to Get Excited About
Principles First Dinner: June 29, 5pm-8pm. Join Principles First for a dinner and discussion about the challenges facing our country and a path to a more principled future.
(https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S026137942400074X?via%3Dihub)
Plus:
The Impact of Instant Runoff Voting on Representation for Women and People of Color: Unite America (Spoiler: it's good)
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Editorial: Trusting the mail could cost you your vote in the June 25 SC primary runoff: Post and Courier
What voters need to know about participating in SC's primary runoffs: News From the States
Opinion: Four election reforms that would expand voter choice and chip away at incumbency: The State
Ranked choice voting suffers red state backlash: Pluribus News
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Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
H.4022
Introduced by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. The bill will be reintroduced and we will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Better Ballot Bulletin: June 1, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
Letter to the Editor Training: June 3, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Tabling at the Juneteenth Freedom Festival: June 15. Join us for canvassing at the Juneteenth Freedom Festival in Columbia. We'll be speaking to festival attendees about the benefits of instant runoff voting. We will also be registering voters and providing information about the upcoming election. Please sign up for a shift today.
Statewide Strategy Call: June 25, 7pm. By popular demand, we're changing our monthly meeting to the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Other Events to Get Excited About
Principles First Dinner: June 29, 5pm-8pm. Join Principles First for a dinner and discussion about the challenges facing our country and a path to a more principled future.
(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_NTcjyKEqPQ)
Plus:
Low turnout, added costs and Jim Crow roots: why does NC still have runoffs? The News and Observer
Watch: Breaking Barriers for Black Women Candidates: Represent Women
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
Republicans are using AND banning IRV
Republicans are polling to find out who should be the VP, and some are using IRV: Peach Pundit and Preferential Primary
Legislatures are also banning it. Four bans in May alone (Louisiana passed it after this article was written): Ballotpedia News
We want to hear from you!
Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
H.4022
Introduced by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. We will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
President, {{broadcaster.name}}
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Better Ballot Bulletin: May 15, 2024
Here you will find important updates in the world of instant runoff voting and events to attend that help spread the word of IRV/RCV in SC.
Great events to get plugged in!
IRV Pitch Training: Thursdays at 8pm. Learn how to pitch Instant Runoff Voting when canvassing on the street or at an event from a Rank the Vote National Organizer! We'll talk about best practices, and have opportunities for you to practice in a friendly environment. All questions welcome.
Bank 'n' Brew with BBSC: May 20, 7pm. Calling is better in a group and with a cold brew. Join fellow supporters in person to call our list to let them know about all the great things we have building in the instant runoff voting movement. There will be a short training followed by hitting the phones.
Phonebanking for BBSC: May 21, 11am. Not in Charleston? That's okay. Join fellow supporters virtually. Let's call supporters to let them know about all the great things we have building in the instant runoff voting movement. There will be a short training followed by hitting the phones.
Statewide Strategy Call: May 28, 7pm. By popular demand, we're changing our monthly meeting to the 4th Tuesday of the month! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. Everyone will meet on the call and have a quick recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.
Letter to the Editor Training: June 3, 8pm. Join other IRV enthusiasts in crafting letters for your local newsletters. Best practices and strategies will be discussed. All questions answered. By dedicating focused time to writing LTEs on a regular basis, you can help boost the IRV signal in your community and across the country.
Other Events to Get Excited About
Making Democracy Count: May 16, 2pm. Join FairVote as we interview mathematician and author Ismar Volić about his new book, Making Democracy Count: How Mathematics Improves Voting, Electoral Maps, and Representation.
Defending Democracy Panel, Carolina for All: May 16, 6:30pm, Benedict College Little Theater. Join 6 democracy experts as they discuss some of the biggest issues facing our country and state.
Political Spending and Democracy: May 20, 5pm. Business for Democracy and American Promise continue the discussion with leading economic experts, Michael Donnelly and Maureen Kline, about how our lopsided campaign finance laws negatively affect the U.S. economy.
Curious how SC's UOCAVA voters vote? Check out the SEC's website
Plus:
Protecting Our Laboratories of Democracy: The Dangers of Banning Ranked Choice Voting: Independent Voter News
Want to be more connected? Join our Slack channel!
News in Instant Runoff Voting
Louisiana runoffs have low turn out and high costs. Ranked choice voting can help: FairVote
Plus: This Louisiana Republican agrees: X (formerly Twitter)
What will the parties do as more and more voters go independent? The Hill
Two instant runoff voting titans make list of Washington DC's 500 most influential people: Rob Richie and Cynthia Richie Terrell
We want to hear from you!
Please fill out this quick demographic survey. It will help us in our grant seeking efforts.
H.4022
Introduced by Representatives Neal Collins (R-5) and Dr Jermaine Johnson (D-70)
This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. The regular 2024 legislative is over, but that does NOT mean the effort is. We will be doubling our efforts to find more supporters. We need to gather more support so that we can push it even further next session!
We are looking for:
Cosponsors
We are actively looking for cosponsors for this municipal option bill. The best way to do this is to sit down with legislatures and have a conversation with them about the benefits of IRV. We know that talking to our legislators can be intimidating. If you would like to meet with your elected officials or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected]. We can provide support and guidance.
Municipal Resolutions of Support
Individual municipalities are key to our strategy. When the elected officials who will be most affected by this new option are supportive, it will go a long way to show the legislature that this should be passed. Not all town and city council members know about this great upgrade to the way that we vote. To learn more about how to spread the word, email us at [email protected]
Business Support
The South Carolina Small Business Chamber of Commerce has joined our coalition in support of instant runoff voting/ranked choice voting. They are actively looking for businesses to sign on and show their support. If you are a business owner or know one, please sign the petition.
Are you looking for a flyer to hang up at your local community board? Or maybe something to handout to people? Check out our Printables!
We have an easy way to get involved! Sign our petition! Show your support of instant runoff voting by signing and sharing. Remember to share it to your social media!
If you like what you've read here and would like us to continue our efforts, please donate. We're building momentum here in South Carolina. Help us continue to educate our fellow South Carolinians. Consider making a monthly contribution. It helps us to better strategize our long term goals.
Thank you for reading,
Nicole Sanchez,
President, Better Ballot SC
