The IRV works basically as follows: Instead of just casting one vote for one candidate, voters rank the candidates: 1,2,3, etc. (hence, the motto, "it's as easy as 1-2-3."). If no candidate receives a majority of the #1 votes, the candidate with the least total of #1 votes is eliminated. The second choice votes from these ballots are then transferred to the other candidates. The ballots are recounted, and candidates are eliminated in this fashion until 1 winner emerges with a majority of the vote.
A very easy to understand Flash animation can be found here:
http://www.chrisgates.net/irv/
More on IRV here:
http://www.fairvote.org/irv/
I realize there are some concerns that in a very close election a candidate with the most number of first-choice votes may not be elected due to another candidate being more preferred in second, third AND first choice votes over all. A second choice (or many choices) allows for preferences in voting, establishing a true majority (as opposed to a plurality) that is more reflective of the people�s will.
The citizens of Minneapolis should be able to vote for the decision to establish IRV in our elections. It�s a matter that only the people, and not the politicians, can make.
Aaron Neumann
Holland
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