Least Worst
The buzz since Thursday has been all about the performance of the two presumptive candidates for President in Thursday night’s debate. It is the nature of punditry to criticize, and there has been no shortage of criticism. While the country is far from unanimous regarding which candidate would be the better person to serve in this important role for the next four years, there does seem to be consensus that these two candidates are reflective of a system in need of improvement.
We don't need to look far for a simple idea that could make a positive impact. Businessperson-turned-politician Andrew Yang has been advocating for a shift to Ranked Choice Voting. Here is how it would work for a single-winner election like the U.S. Presidency:
Voters rank the candidates according to their personal preference (1st, 2nd, 3rd, etc.)
If a candidate wins an outright majority of first-preference votes, they win the election.
If no candidate wins an outright majority of first-preference votes, the candidate with the fewest first-preference votes is eliminated from the race, and the second-preferences of those ballots are then treated as first-preference votes.
A new tally is conducted in similar fashion until one candidate accumulates a majority of votes.
This approach would create a friendlier environment for voters to support 3rd party options. Under the status quo, voting for 3rd party candidates is often viewed as “wasting” one’s vote. Such candidates very rarely win an election, but their involvement in the process is often cited as playing a “spoiler” role for one of the two major party candidates. With ranked choice voting, citizens can “vote their heart” safe in the knowledge that if they vote for an up-and-coming outsider that falls short of a majority, their 2nd preference will be honored if a re-tally is necessary.
This is a simple idea that would likely open up the political process to more candidates. And if we believe anything in America, we tend to believe in the power of competition to increase the quality of available options.
Our political system is controlled by two parties, and they have no interest in creating a broader menu of options for voters. On this point, they are aligned with each other, and at odds with our broader collective interests.
Along with Death and Taxes, being forced to choose the least-worst candidate from a two-person race for President seems to be inevitable. As such, I’m going to go to the polls, cast my vote and hope. I hope all registered voters do the same. As flawed as our system is, it is diminished further when we decide to not participate in it.
Have a safe and fun Independence Day!
Sunday Supper
If you are looking for some interesting grillables for the upcoming holiday, The Butcher & Grocer in Grandview Heights comes highly recommended. This Carne Asada is a classic grilling option, as are these Tarragon-Mustard Chicken Skewers. Quadruple Chile Cheeseburgers are an interesting way to go the extra mile this holiday week. This Italian-American Pasta Salad looks fantastic, and you can’t go wrong with a Classic Cole Slaw or this Smoked Salmon Potato Salad.
Sunday Music
Here is the storied Canadian band Rush, performing their classic, Freewill. They Might Be Giants played a wonderfully stripped down set at NPR’s Tiny Desk twelve years ago. Enjoy!
If you know anyone who might like this essay, please share it with them.
Have a great week ahead! Offer support to others. Make good use of this day. And let me know how I can help.
Peace & Love,