Ranked Choice Voting Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
Starting in 2030, every U.S. Senate and House election nationwide would use ranked choice voting. Voters rank candidates instead of picking one.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: Third-party and independent candidates, voters who dislike 'lesser evil' choices, first-time voters turning 18 after 2030.
- Loses: State election officials facing major system overhauls, major parties whose dominance depends on spoiler effects.
What it does
- Amends the Help America Vote Act to require ranking at least 5 candidates on every federal congressional ballot.
- Eliminates all separate runoff elections for Senate and House races nationwide.
- Federal Election Commission must pay states $4-$8 per registered voter by June 1, 2026, for equipment and training.
- Lets the Attorney General and individual voters sue noncompliant states in 3-judge federal courts.
Why should I care?
Supporters say ranked choice voting ends 'wasted vote' fears and rewards candidates with broad appeal. Critics argue it confuses voters, slows results, and oversteps state control of elections. Maine and Alaska already use it; this bill makes it national. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.