How ranked choice voting works
Understanding RCV
What is RCV?
Ranked choice voting (RCV) is a voting method where you vote for candidates in order of your preference. This allows you to 'rank' your vote - first choice, second choice, and third choice.
This method can allow your vote to count toward another candidate if your favorite candidate loses. If your first choice candidate is eliminated, your vote is moved to your second choice.
How to mark your RCV ballot
Step 1: Choose your top candidate. This is your first choice candidate and will be the vote that is considered first.
Step 2: If you have a second choice (not required), you may select another candidate. This must be different from your first choice candidate.
Step 3: If you have a third choice (not required), you may choose another selection. This must be different from your first and second choices.
Sample RCV ballot using Minneapolis Parks as candidates:
How your vote is counted
All first choice votes are counted. If no candidate has the required number of votes to win, candidates that have the fewest votes are eliminated. This process continues until a candidate has enough votes to win.
Election officials only use your second or third choice if your first choice has already been eliminated.
Practice using ranked choice voting
Common questions about RCV
What are common errors people make when marking their ballot?
Error 1: Choosing the same candidate in more than one column. For example, selecting the same candidate as your first and second choice vote.
Error 2: Choosing more than one candidate in the same column. For example, selecting two different names within your first choice column.
Error 3: Skipping a column between choices. For example, selecting candidates in the first and third choice columns, but not the second choice column.
Does my vote still count if I rank the same candidate three times?
Yes, but your vote will count once for that candidate. Ranking one candidate as your first, second and third choice is the same as leaving the second and third choices blank. You do not improve a candidate's chances of winning by voting for the candidate more than once.
Does my vote still count if I only select one choice?
Yes, your vote will count for your one choice. Ranking up to three different choices for each office is optional. Your vote stays with a candidate through all rounds of counting. If that candidate is defeated, your vote transfers to your next ranked candidate.
Can I give multiple candidates the same ranking?
No. Ranking more than one candidate in a column is an overvote, such as selecting two first-choices. We will skip that column and transfer the vote to your next ranked choice, if any.
If you vote in your polling place on Election Day, two features will help you avoid an overvote:
- The ballot marking device guides voters who use it through all three rankings in each office. It will not allow you to select more than one candidate per ranking in any office.
- The ballot counter machine will notify you if you choose more than one candidate in any ranking.
Will the voting equipment tell me if I've made an error specific to RCV?
The equipment will tell you if you have overvoted (voted for more than one candidate in the same column).
The equipment will not tell you if you:
- Marked the same candidate in more than one column of an office
- Skipped a column between ranked candidates
Whether in the polling place or voting by mail, voters should pay special attention to avoid these mistakes.
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Minneapolis, MN 55414
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