The Effect Of Instant Runoff Voting On Democracy

This study uses multiple methods to compare campaign styles, voter turnout, and diversity of the Board of Supervisors in San Francisco before and after their implementation in 2004 of Instant Runoff Voting (IRV)--also known as Ranked Choice Voting--a system that allows voters to rank three candidates instead of choosing just one. There has been very little empirical analysis of this new voting system, which is being implemented by increasing numbers of municipalities throughout the United States. To determine whether or not IRV may lead to improved democratic outcomes, this study examines negativity and cooperation in campaigns, turnout data, and the demographics of who is elected before and after the institution of IRV in San Francisco. Original data was gathered and analyzed and interviews conducted to evaluate whether or not IRV leads to enhanced democratic capacities compared to traditional runoff elections. Specifically, mass mailers from the years 2002, 2004, 2006, and 2008 were analyzed for both degree of negativity and whether or not the mailers added valuable information or simply attacked opposing candidates. The study also examined the degree of cooperation that existed under the new system. Voter turnout and the diversity of the elected Board of Supervisors were also analyzed, before and after IRV, and interviews added context to the research. The results indicate that IRV does lead to improved democratic processes and outcomes by creating a less negative and more cooperative campaign environment. Additionally, turnout is higher under IRV, even during presidential elections. Finally, in the case of the demographic makeup of the Board of Supervisors in San Francisco, after IRV there was a trend toward increased minority representation, although there are still very few female supervisors holding office.