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}}
{{settings.site.full_url}}

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 starts a series where we'll look at some of the benefits of instant runoff voting, starting with clean campaigns. Looking for news and events? Scroll down. They're still here.

One of the most frequent complaints about elections is the mudslinging. The non-stop, incessant name calling and personal attacks distract from what actually matters. What does the candidate want to DO? What is their positive vision for the future of their district?

The current system incentivizes this behavior. The loudest, angriest voice gets the most clicks, the most air time. They suck up the oxygen. So why be cordial? Why focus on policy when the system doesn't reward it?

How does IRV clean up campaigns?

It's all about those ranking. When voters can rank their candidates, candidates need the rankings to win. If candidate A insults my top pick, candidate B, I'm sure not going to rank them on my ballot. IRV incentivizes them to focus on their own policies and vision for their district instead of on their opponent's inconsequential faults.

Great events to get plugged in!

Statewide Strategy Call: August 26, 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.

IRV 101 + Social Media Ambassadorship: August 28, 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 to utilize social media to its fullest potential! Social media is a great organizing tool, if used properly.

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.

(https://fairvote.org/press/fair-representation-act-2025)

Plus:

How two-party systems foster conspiracy theories, the “Japanese First” Party, Rank MI Vote, college reform stacking, and timely links: The Expand Democracy 5

Opinion: Don't let NYC botch our elections: City & State New York

Juneau could become first major Alaska city to adopt ranked choice voting for local elections: KTOO (IRV is used statewide in Alaska, but local jurisdictions need to choose to adopt it)

New analysis from the NYC Primary: Anonymous Cast Vote Records released to give more detail on how voters interacted with the RCV system.

How did New Yorkers rank their mayoral candidates? The data is in: The Gothamist

Watch: RCV 2025 and Beyond: Lessons Learned from NYC: FairVote

New York City Cast Vote Record: An Initial Analysis of the 2025 Democratic Mayoral Primary: FairVote

DC Voters overwhelmingly approved IRV in the November 2024 election. Check out some new updates.

DC Council votes to fund ranked choice voting implementation in nation’s capital: FairVote

DC Council partially funds ranked choice voting, falls short of full implementation: FOX5

Indicted Washington, DC official returns to office with 30% support – a reminder why DC is moving to ranked choice voting: FairVote

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.

BBSC's YouTube Channel

You asked for it and it's here! Better Ballot SC now has a YouTube channel. We have videos from the 2025 IRV/RCV Rally, our takes on the 2025 NYC Primary, and even a short from passing the Irmo resolution in support of instant runoff voting. 

Did you know that BBSC is on Facebook, Instagram, X, TikTok, Threads, and BlueSky, too? Please follow us on your favorite platform and like, comment, and share!

Trivia Night!

We had a great night of learning and fun with IRV 101 and Trivia! Rank It! won, but you can have a chance to take the top spot next time. 

Great events to get plugged in!

Statewide Strategy Call: July 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.

Good Trouble Lives On: July 17, 11am. This is a great opportunity to spread the word with politically active people. Join fellow volunteers in showing future supporters how they can have great voice in how our government functions.

Quarterly Board Meeting: July 30, 5pm (rescheduled). 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].

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.

(https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/fixing-a-broken-democracy-meredith-sumpter-on/id1507685680?i=1000716270360)

Charlottesville Voters Embrace Ranked Choice: Ranked Choice Virginia

Elon Musk, The America Party, and election reform: FairVote

Don't blame ranked choice voting just because democrats had to choose between a socialist and a swamp monster: Peach Pundit

Hope for American Unity, Yuval Levin: Christianity Today

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.

New York City Results

Zorhan Mamdani leads the NYC Democratic primary. He led a truly grassroots campaign that spoke directly to New Yorkers. That is one of the benefits of instant runoff voting. It empowers candidates to reach the widest portion of their electorate and New York Democrats has their say.

Youth Vote

40% of early voters were under the age of 40. We're still waiting on more demographic figures, but turnout was higher than previous NYC primary elections.

It's well known that young voters distrust the system, so why did they turn out? Not only did they have a candidate speaking to their issues, but they could fully voice their opinion on the ballot! Young people are all about instant runoff voting because they want more choice and more voice.

Preliminary Results?

We have the preliminary results, but why only preliminary?

Due to New York voting laws, the election board must wait for more ballots to be returned. Once they have been, the instant runoff will commence and we'll know the details.

But voters were clear. Zohran Mamdani has a significant lead over Andrew Cuomo, so much so that Cuomo has conceded. It is not a majority though, so we anxiously await the instant runoff results. Did you know that 79% of jurisdictions release their IRV results within 24 hours?

More:

Statement on ranked choice voting in NYC primary: FairVote

New Yorkers were encouraged to try out IRV in a variety of ways. Try ice cream: CNN

Mamdani stuns Cuomo: 5 takeaways from the NYC mayoral primary: The Hill

Comparing the 2021 and 2025 NYC mayoral primary timelines: City & State

The story behind the IRV visualizations: Spectrum News

Great events to get plugged in!

IRV 101 + Trivia: July 10. Join us for a fun night of learning! Then test that knowledge (and more) with our IRV trivia. Join us 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.

Statewide Strategy Call: July 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.

Quarterly Board Meeting: July 16, 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].

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.

(https://fairvote.org/our-reforms/thechoicemovie/)

A new film, The Choice, follows two candidates who ran for Portland City Council in 2024 and shows how ranked choice voting impacted their campaigns.

Charlottesville

Charlottesville used the multiwinner form of instant runoff voting (aka single transferable vote) for the first time! It delivered on promises to increase representation and voter satisfaction. Unfortunately, not all Virginia elections used instant runoff voting. Read

Read more:

A deep dive on Charlottesville Ballot Data: FairVote

Virginia elections show value of instant runoff voting: FairVote

RCV advocates say Charlottesville's first ranked choice election delivers on promises of diverse representation: Independent Voter News

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.

New Yorkers Go to the Polls on Tuesday

For the second time, NYC voters will use instant runoff voting to choose their candidates for the general election in November. Though both Republicans and Democrats would use instant runoff voting to choose their candidates, only Democrats have enough candidates to hold a primary. Check out news and how New Yorkers are practicing IRV below.

Here's who's running for New York mayor in 2025: City and State

What to Expect in New York City's Ranked Choice Voting Elections: FairVote

NYC mayoral candidate unlocks matching funds after boost from Mamdani: Gothamist

We want you to vote for NYC's most iconic bagel! WNYC

Some of the candidates are even taking advantage of a great bridge builder strategy: cross-endorsing. Check out the announcement video.

Great events to get plugged in!

Statewide Strategy Call: June 24, 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.

IRV 101 + Trivia: July 10. Join us for a fun night of learning! Then test that knowledge (and more) with our IRV trivia. Join us virtually.

Letter to the Editor Training: July 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.raineycenter.org/polling/voters-support-elections-that-produce-problem-solving-politicians)

Plus:

Awaiting Governor's signature, Maine to use IRV in more races: Maine Morning Star

Former President Bill Clinton shares support of Instant Runoff Voting on the View: FairVote X

Ranked Choice Voting is a Women's Issue: The Female Body Politic

An Initial Assessment of Proportional Ranked-Choice Voting in Portland, Oregon: AEI

Proportional Representation for Competition: R Street

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