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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we're back to our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with eliminating runoffs. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

Eliminating the Need for Costly, Low Turnout Runoffs

Runoffs happen in some elections in South Carolina when a candidate in a race does not reach 50% + 1 of the vote (a majority). To learn more about the difference between majority-runoff elections and plurality elections, check out our video on it. A little more than 100 municipalities in SC use the majority-runoff system and it's also used for the partisan primaries. But why do we want to eliminate them?

Two reason: voter turnout and cost. Voter turnout usually drops by about half in the runoffs, meaning half the people who voted in the original election return to cast their votes in the runoff. This skews the results so that the decisions of the many are being decided by the few, and everyone has to pay for it. Which leads us to...

Runoffs cost money because our hard working election officials have to run a second election. We believe in being good stewards of taxpayer money and there is no good reason to hold runoffs when there's a better alternative.

Instant runoff voting eliminates the need for runoffs because voters have ranked their candidates. Since voters have ranked them, we already know how they would vote in the event of a runoff. Saves time, saves money. IRV is a common sense solution. Plus, it reduced polarization, increases representation, decreases mudslinging, and eliminates the spoiler effect.

Great events to get plugged in!

UPDATED!!!! January Strategy Call: January 22, 8:00pm. Join us for this special meeting. We'll be joining a national call with RCV supporters from around the country to talk about the wins of 2025 and what 2026 has to offer. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. 

Veterans for All Voters hosts the Future Caucus: January 21, 5:30pm. This Happy Hour Meet and Greet will feature State Senator Tedder and possibly other members of the South Carolina Future Caucus. This gathering is open to the public. All South Carolina veterans and military supporters are invited to attend. Light refreshments and good conversation will be available.

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.

Majority Rules Screening: January 30, 7pm. Check out the true story of how changing the way we vote changes everything, updated for the 2024 election. Join us at the UUCC for the viewing followed by a Q&A.

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, TikTok, and YouTube.

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://fairvote.org/young-voters-are-ready-for-ranked-choice-voting/)

SPLIT

Portland Snow Plow Update: Rank your plows!

Ranked choice voting will be possible in Falls Church in 2027: ARLNow

How Many Votes Does It Take to Get an Oscar Nomination in 2026?: The Wrap

Watch: Fixing Incentives with Ranked Choice Voting: FairVote

Watch: How Proportional Representation Could End Gerrymandering: Protect Democracy

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we're back to our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with eliminating zombie votes. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Eliminates Zombie Votes

That's right, zombie votes. This little known term is a real problem. When we cast a ballot for a candidate who drops out, we have cast a zombie vote. The candidate moves on, but the vote remains. This can happen with early and absentee voting.

But there's a simple solution: rank your candidates! Since you've ranked them, if your top pick drops out, your vote would automatically transfer to your second choice. That means greater participation from voters and the ability to vote for the person you truly want while still having a backup.

Great events to get plugged in!

Be the Ones Legislative Kick Off: January 13, 11am. This is a joyful, nonpartisan event marking the first day of the 2026 legislative session. We'll have a table and be talking to attendees about the benefits of instant runoff voting. We'll bring our selfie frames. Have you gotten your picture yet?

King Day at the Dome: January 19, 2026. Join us to march in celebration of Dr Martin Luther King, Jr and his legacy. Then we'll talk to attendees about the benefits of instant runoff voting. Details are still developing. RSVP today to stay up to date.

UPDATED!!!! January Strategy Call: January 22, 8:00pm. Join us for this special meeting. We'll be joining a national call with RCV supporters from around the country to talk about the wins of 2025 and what 2026 has to offer. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. 

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.

Majority Rules Screening: January 30, 7pm. Check out the true story of how changing the way we vote changes everything, updated for the 2024 election. Join us at the UUCC for the viewing followed by a Q&A.

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, TikTok, and YouTube.

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

SPLIT

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=anmrdoj-czk))

PBOT Snowplow Naming Contest: Portland.gov

A Delicious Take on Ranked Choice Voting Lets Chicagoans Elect Best Pizza: City Bureau

Announcing PolitiFact Readers' Choice for the 2025 Lie of the Year: PoliticFact

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

Happy Holidays!

This season reminds us what makes our community special: we come from different backgrounds, parties, and perspectives - and our holiday traditions are just as varied. Whether your holidays are loud or quiet, traditional or unconventional, we’re grateful to share this work with you. Wishing you a joyful season, however you choose to spend it.

Great events to get plugged in!

January Strategy Call: January 27, 6:30pm. Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. We'll discuss the state of the movement and ways to expand our reach across SC. Everyone will meet on the call and have a recap of what the state of the movement in South Carolina is and then we'll break into local groups.

King Day at the Dome: January 18, 2026. Join us to march in celebration of Dr Martin Luther King, Jr and his legacy. Then we'll talk to attendees about the benefits of instant runoff voting. Details are still developing. RSVP today to stay up to date.

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.

Majority Rules Screening: January 30, 7pm. Check out the true story of how changing the way we vote changes everything, updated for the 2024 election. Join us at the UUCC for the viewing followed by a Q&A.

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, TikTok, and YouTube.

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

SPLIT

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://fairvoteaction.org/transforming-congressional-elections-with-the-ranked-choice-voting-act/)

Plus: D.C. is poised to use ranked choice voting next year. It's already reshaping local races: WAMU

High School civic innovators bridging the divide: The Fulcrum

Ranked choice voting outperforms the winner-take-all system used to elect nearly every US politician: The Conversation

In a setback for Trump, Indiana lawmakers defeat redistricting plan: NPR (Proportional RCV is great fix for gerrymandering!)

Nonpartisan Reformers Unite: NANR Summit Charts Bold Path for Election Reform in 2026: Independent Voter News

Crowded primaries will shape the 2026 midterms. They need ranked choice voting: FairVote

Michigan's RCV petition short 200,000 signature: WLNS

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we're back to our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with increased representation. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Increases Representation

People generally agree that hearing from a wide range of voices is good for our communities and our democracy, but our elected officials do not necessarily reflect that agreement. In SC, our elected officials are generally white and overwhelmingly male. It's a good thing to have people of those demographics in power, but not only them.

Diverse people bring diverse views and fair competition of ideas. The best ideas can float to the top and are more likely to help everyone rather than a small group of people.

Focusing on women for a moment, in 2024 only 30% of our municipal elected officials were women (municipalities over 10K). Worse, only 13.5% of our general assembly are women. In municipalities that use IRV/RCV, that number climbs to 52% and 42% for state legislatures that use it. Those numbers are dramatic. But why?

IRV/RCV eliminates vote splitting so when two members of the same demographic run, their votes aren't split. The ranking allows voters to vote for the candidates they really want instead of the lesser of two evils. Additionally, women are generally less likely to be combative and go on the attack, which the IRV/RCV system favors.

It not only increases representation, it benefit minority voters. According to this report, voters of color rank more candidates and take more advantage of the ranked ballot. It also increases voter participation which can have a diversifying effect. 

Great events to get plugged in!

Nov/Dec Strategy Call: December 2, 6:30pm. Our special holiday meeting will combine November and December! We'll have food, fun, and strategy! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. We'll discuss the state of the movement and ways to expand our reach across SC. Everyone will meet on the call and have a 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.

Majority Rules Screening: January 30, 7pm. Check out the true story of how changing the way we vote changes everything, updated for the 2024 election. Join us at the UUCC for the viewing followed by a Q&A.

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, TikTok, and YouTube.

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://newmexicosun.com/stories/676382655-poll-shows-strong-support-for-ranked-choice-voting-among-santa-fe-and-las-cruces-voters)

Plus: How a 1940 electoral system reform in Cambridge made its 2025 housing breakthrough possible: CommonWealth Beacon

Costly runoff elections send voters back to the polls in Lexington County: Lexington Chronicle

How Better Ballot Design and Voter Education Improved
Oakland’s Ranked-Choice Voting Elections: Election Center (starts on page 29 of the report)

Watch: Thanksgiving Sides: FairVote

DC Board of Elections works to roll out ranked choice voting in 2026 Primary Election: DC News NOW

Wins for Women Offer a Blueprint for the Future: The Fulcrum

Easthampton leaders advocate for ranked choice voting: The Reminder

Ranked-choice voting shows its value in Easthampton election (The Republican Editorials): Mass Live

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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 Day...

It's election day...again... In some municipalities a runoff is required when no candidate receives a majority of votes (50%+1 votes) and that happened in spades. From Columbia to Myrtle Beach to Pickens and beyond, voters are returning to the polls today.

These runoffs are costly and usually less voters turnout! That means the decisions of the many are being decided by the few, but everyone has to pay for it! If only there was a better way...

There is!

Instant runoff/ranked choice voting is the best of both worlds. It allows you to rank your candidates in the order that you prefer them. Since we already know how you would vote in the event of a runoff (because you ranked candidates on your first trip to the polls), the runoff is unnecessary. Not only would we get our results sooner, but we'd save all the time and money from not holding a traditional runoff. 

We're looking for municipalities to show their support for instant runoff/ranked choice voting. If you would like to learn how to get a municipality near you to do so, fill out this quick form.

Great events to get plugged in!

Intro to IRV/RCV: Tomorrow, 7pm. Whether you're new to the instant runoff voting movement or you've been around since the beginning, join us to pick up new knowledge. Plus, you can learn the basics of outreach including best practices for the elevator pitch, social media interactions, and letter to the editors.

Nov/Dec Strategy Call: December 2, 6:30pm. Our special holiday meeting will combine November and December! We'll have food, fun, and strategy! Join us to recap the month and discuss the future, locally. Join us in Columbia, Charleston, or virtually. We'll discuss the state of the movement and ways to expand our reach across SC. Everyone will meet on the call and have a 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: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky,TikTok, and YouTube

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://fairvote.org/women-across-the-country-win-with-ranked-choice-voting-in-2025-elections/)

Plus: Greenbelt, Maryland, could be the next municipality to adopt ranked-choice voting: Ballotpedia News

Election Day 2025: Ranked Choice Voting in Action: FairVote

Watch: How to End the Gerrymandering Wars: FairVote

Defeated in California, GOP megadonor calls for nationwide "commitment to fair and impartial maps:" Politico

2025 Election Roundup: FairVote

Election Day 2025: Ranked Choice Voting points the way to a better national politics: Democracy SOS

How New York could have avoided a nasty mayoral election: Salon

Fusion voting, RCV for overseas/military voters, and timely links: Expand Democracy

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

Election Day!!!

Thanks to the legislature passing two weeks of early voting into law, today is the last day to vote. So, if you haven't done so already, now's the day to vote! 

For the most part, this election day is for those who live in municipalities. There are 271 municipalities in South Carolina and many of them have people on the ballot. Depending on the municipality, your election method will either be plurality (most votes wins) or majority-runoff (requires a runoff if there's no majority winner). Check out our short video about election methods. In it, you'll see how instant runoff voting is the best of both worlds: majority winners without the cost of a traditional runoff.

Do you live in or near a municipality that is wasting taxpayer time and money on runoffs? Or maybe one that keeps electing winners without a clear majority? Let's pass a resolution in support of instant runoff voting. Sounds imposing, I know, but we can break it down. Fill out this interest form to learn more.

Great events to get plugged in!

Intro to IRV/RCV: November 19, 7pm. Whether you're new to the instant runoff voting movement or you've been around since the beginning, join us to pick up new knowledge. Plus, you can learn the basics of outreach including best practices for the elevator pitch, social media interactions, and letter to the editors.

Nov/Dec Strategy Call: December 2, 6:30pm. Our special holiday meeting will combine November and December! We'll have food, fun, and strategy! 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: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

SPLIT

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://fairvote.org/how-ranked-choice-voting-is-shaping-the-2025-elections/)

Plus: RCV in U.S. Student Elections: A 2025 Analysis: SSRN

Learn to fill out an IRV ballot in 30 seconds: FairVote

Utah's only third party legislator says he intends to resign - but there's a catch: Utah News Dispatch

Election Reform Turns Down the Temperature of Our Politics: The Fulcrum

Fact Sheet: Ranked Choice Voting in the 2025 Elections: FairVote

Oregonians could have a chance to have open primaries — again: OPB

Why every ballot – and ranked-choice voting – can make a difference: MinnPost

In an era of rising political violence, election reform can help lower the temperature of our politics: FairVote

PBOT unveils winning snowplow names, routes ahead of winter weather: KOIN CBS6

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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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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.

A quick programing note: This newsletter has traditionally arrived on the 1st and 15th of each month. Moving forward, it will arrive on the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month. Thanks for reading!

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we continue our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with ensures majority winners. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Ensures Majority Winners

Last Bulletin we talked about saving taxpayers time and money by eliminating runoffs. We talked about how runoffs are the current option for ensuring majority support, but do they actually produce a winner that the majority of voters prefer?

Sure, the winner of the runoff receives a majority of votes from those who come to vote in the runoff, but is that representative of the population? Voter participation usually drops by about half in a runoff.

That isn't majority rule. It's rule by those who have the time and energy to show up for an election twice. Instead we propose the best of both worlds.

Say goodbye to the nonmajority winners produced by plurality voting and the costly, low attended runoffs. Say hello to instant runoff voting. By ranking your candidates when you cast your ballot the first time, we can have an "instant runoff" that ensures majority support with more input from voters. Plus, we won't have to wait two weeks!

We need instant runoff/ranked choice voting now. Donate today to help make this necessary change in our elections.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

Great events to get plugged in!

Intro to IRV/RCV: October 15, 7pm. TONIGHT! Whether you're new to the instant runoff voting movement or you've been around since the beginning, join us to pick up new knowledge. Plus, you can learn the basics of outreach including best practices for the elevator pitch, social media interactions, and letter to the editors.

No Kings, South Carolina Unites: October 18, 1:30pm. This is a great opportunity to spread the word to politically active people. Join fellow supporters in showing future supporters how they can have greater voice in how our government functions.

Majority Rules Screening: October 17, 6:30pm. Check out the true story of how changing the way we vote changes everything. Join us at the UUCC for the viewing followed by a Q&A.

Statewide Strategy Call: October 28, 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: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://www.thestate.com/opinion/article312358989.html)

Plus: Andrew Yang launches mobile network to combat phone addiction, talks shutdown, 2028 Dem primary: ABC7 News

Expanding Representation: Reinventing Congress for the 21st Century: American Academy of Arts & Sciences

Empirical Analysis of Ranked Choice Voting Method: Institute for Mathematics and Democracy

The 2025 Elections Using Ranked Choice Voting: FairVote

Fun uses of IRV: Donuts in Colorado, 'I Voted" Sticker in New Mexico, and Pizza in Chicago

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we continue our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with saving time and money. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Saves Time & Money

We all pay taxes and we all want those tax payer dollars to be spent wisely. Wasting tax dollars on costly, low attended runoffs is not spending them wisely. Opponents say that runoffs ensure majority support, and technically they do, but when voter participation drops, the decisions of the many are being decided by the few and everyone has to pay for it. Is finding a majority by the few actually a majority?

Instead we could use instant runoff/ranked choice voting. By ranking your candidates, we already know how you would vote in the event of a runoff. Instead of coming back two weeks later and finding more time in our busy days, we've already given all the information that we need to give by ranking. Elections are decided sooner and by MORE people. 

We need instant runoff/ranked choice voting now. Donate today to help make this necessary change in our elections.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

Great events to get plugged in!

Tabling at SCUUJA Fall Fest: October 4, 10am. Join BBSC at the SC Unitarian Universalist Justice Alliance Fall Festival! There are two shifts. Please sign up today to help spread the positive message of instant runoff voting.

Intro to IRV/RCV: October 15, 7pm. Whether you're new to the instant runoff voting movement or you've been around since the beginning, join us to pick up new knowledge. Plus, you can learn the basics of outreach including best practices for the elevator pitch, social media interactions, and letter to the editors.

Workers of Billionaires: October 18, 10am. This is a great opportunity to spread the word to politically active people. Join fellow supporters in showing future supporters how they can have greater voice in how our government functions.

Statewide Strategy Call: October 28, 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: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

SPLIT

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/5520112-survey-political-crisis-in-us/?tbref=hp)

Watch: Fighting Fire with Water: FairVote

New Arlington voting equipment could kick into gear next spring: ARL Now

Read: Ranked choice voting protects military voters: FairVote

Fort Collins to start using ranked choice voting: X

How Ranked Choice Voting Could Help Save US Democracy: Psychology Today

Listen: Ranked Choice Voting: Can Michigan Change How It Votes? The Daily News Show

Watch: American Bar Association encouraged states to consider IRV: FairVote

No Country for Young Politicians - And How to Fix That: The Fulcrum

Meet everyone running to represent South Carolina's 1st District: Live 5 WCSC

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we continue our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with decreasing political polarization. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Decreases Polarization

The political divide in our country has been increasing for decades. There are many factors that contribute to this problem: gerrymandering, the removal of the Fairness Doctrine, the 24 hour news cycle, etc. There is a crucial one that gets little focus: the way that we elect our representatives.

Our current system incentivizes candidates to speak to their most extreme voters because that base can deliver a win. With an instant runoff voting system, candidates need a majority to win so they must have a broader message that speaks to more people. That's where the rankings come in. If the candidate isn't your first pick, they're trying hard to be your second or third with a broadly appealing message.

It also changes the tone candidates use for the same reason. There is a line from extreme rhetoric to extreme action. Since candidates want to pick up those second and third place votes, their rhetoric is clamped down and campaigns are less divisive. 

The results of polarization are clear: a divided society that is leaning more and more into political violence. We need to change the system to pull us back from this new normal.

Systemic change to the way that we vote is necessary to reduce polarization and political violence.

We need instant runoff/ranked choice voting now. Donate today to help make this necessary change in our elections.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

Great events to get plugged in!

IRV/RCV 101 + Outreach 101: September 17, 7pm. Whether you're new to the instant runoff voting movement or you've been around since the beginning, join us to pick up new knowledge. Plus, you can learn the basics of outreach including best practices for the elevator pitch, social media interactions, and letter to the editors.

Statewide Strategy Call: September 23, 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.

SC Green Party Convention: September 20, 1:30pm. We'll be tabling at the SC Green Party Convention. Let's talk to interested attendees about how IRV/RCV can solve the problem of the spoiler effect and more!

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Tabling at SCUUJA Fall Fest: October 4, 10am. Join BBSC at the SC Unitarian Universalist Justice Alliance Fall Festival! There are two shifts. Please sign up today to help spread the positive message of instant runoff voting.

SPLIT

The Importance of an Executive Director

Better Ballot SC is an all volunteer organization that has worked to educate and advocate, but to be more effective, to effect real change in our communities, we need to take our next big step, and we need your help to do it.

This leader will drive our outreach, expand our coalition, and push IRV over the finish line in the Statehouse. The truth is, without this dedicated leadership, our progress could stall and South Carolina can’t afford to wait.

Your donation today to will help make this imperative step a reality. Please consider a recurring donation so that we can better budget for the future.

(https://www.americanbar.org/news/abanews/aba-news-archives/2025/09/aba-releases-final-report-democracy-task-force/)

Plus: Fun IRV elections are a great way to spread the word. Check out these examples: Votebeat's New Pet Mascot, Somerville's Bike Path Mayor, and Lewis and Clark's New Mascot.

Do you want to host a fun election? It's easy! Just email us.

Everything you need to know about Ireland's presidential election: Yahoo News

Improving Redistricting with Proportional Representation: FairVote

Why America Has the World's Oldest Politicians: Governing

Introducing the Expand Democracy 3: The urgency of confronting political violence and spotlighting the value of democracy-affirming technologies: Expand Democracy

Opinion: Politicians are Polarized. American Voters Not So Much: New York Times

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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

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.

What does instant runoff voting do?

Here we talk a lot about instant runoff voting. It's kind of our thing. But why? Today we continue our series on the benefits of instant runoff/ranked choice voting, continuing with increased voter participation. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

IRV/RCV Increases Voter Participation

There are two ways that IRV/RCV increases voter participation. The first is because it allows for the elimination of runoffs. Runoffs occur two weeks after some elections in South Carolina. They are designed to ensure majority support, but turnout usually drops. IRV/RCV allows voters to fully express their opinions on the candidates by ranking them, so we already know how someone would vote in the event of a runoff. That makes the traditional runoff unnecessary because we capture all the information we need in the regular election (this where the term instant runoff voting comes from). No runoff means no drop in voter participation.

It has also been shown to increase voter participation in general. Though more research is needed, this study in 2024 showed a 17% increase in voter participation. Others have shown an increase in youth turnout and among minority groups. 

People want more choice and more voice. They want cleaner campaigns that focus on problem solving instead of mud slinging. They want bridge builders, not bridge burners.

Let's give the people what they want.

We need instant runoff/ranked choice voting now. Donate today to help make this necessary change in our elections.

Social Media!

Do you follow us on your favorite platform? Please do! And remember to like, comment, and share. Facebook, Instagram, X, Threads, Blue Sky, and TikTok

Are you interested in contributing to our social media presence? We'd love to hear from you! Funny or poignant memes? Let's see 'em! Something graphics-focused on a relevant news item? Send 'em our way! Let's get creative! This easy to use form has everything you need.

Great events to get plugged in!

Workers of Billionaires: September 1, 11am. This is a great opportunity to spread the word to politically active people. Join fellow supporters in showing future supporters how they can have greater voice in how our government functions.

Statewide Strategy Call: September 23, 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.

SC Green Party Convention: September 20, 1:30pm. We'll be tabling at the SC Green Party Convention. Let's talk to interested attendees about how IRV/RCV can solve the problem of the spoiler effect and more!

Letter to the Editor Training: every 1st Monday of the month, 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.

Tabling at SCUUJA Fall Fest: October 4, 10am. Join BBSC at the SC Unitarian Universalist Justice Alliance Fall Festival! There are two shifts. Please sign up today to help spread the positive message of instant runoff voting.

"Ranked choice voting (RCV) continues its steady march across American campuses, with over 100 colleges and universities now using RCV to elect student leaders - representing nearly every state in the country."

(https://expanddem.substack.com/p/best-of-the-expand-democracy-5-young)

More from NYC: Webinar recap from FairVote and an upcoming webinar from Rank The Vote: Friendly Competition: Inside the NYC Mayoral Primary Election

2025 Represent Women's gender Parity Index: Since 2013, Represent Women has been scoring the states on how close they come to parity by gender. See how South Carolina stacks up.

H.3589 Municipal Option Bill

This bill will give municipalities the option of using instant runoff voting in elections. Last session we got a hearing, this year we want to go even further, but we need your help.

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.

Postcards

We'll be hand delivering postcards from constituents. Do you want your legislator to know you support IRV or have a group of friends who would like to submit them? Great! Let us know and we'll send them to you.

Municipal Resolutions

Municipalities are directly impacted by our bill, which would give towns and cities the option of using instant runoff voting. We want to show the legislature that this is something that they want. Municipalities can do this by passing resolutions in support of IRV. To learn how, please fill out this interest form.

Speaking Opportunities

When people hear about instant runoff voting, they like it. If you are a part of a group that hosts speakers, please consider a Better Ballot SC speaker. We'd love to spread the word among your network.

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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