We must ensure Ranked Choice Voting works for all of CT

As Gov. Ned Lamont’s Working Group to Study Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) continues its work, I want to emphasize the need for careful consideration of RCV’s potential impact on urban monolingual communities in Connecticut.

While RCV has the potential to increase voter choice and reduce polarization, we must ensure its implementation doesn’t inadvertently disenfranchise marginalized communities. I urge the Working Group to examine the following concerns:

• Voter confusion and disenfranchisement: RCV can be complex, leading to increased voter confusion, particularly among non-English speakers. Robust and inclusive voter education and outreach efforts are essential.
• Representation for marginalized communities: RCV may reduce the political influence of marginalized communities, who already face significant barriers to voting and representation. We must explore ways to ensure RCV empowers these communities and amplifies their voices.
• Gentrification and empowerment of more affluent communities : RCV might unintentionally empower more affluent and gentrified communities at the expense of long-standing residents, skewing representation and resources. Prioritizing equity and inclusivity in RCV’s implementation is crucial.

In 2019, California Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoed SB 212 , a bill that would have established RCV in California, citing concerns about “confusion and disenfranchisement” among voters, particularly in communities with lower English proficiency. He also noted insufficient funding for voter education and outreach. While acknowledging RCV’s potential benefits, Newsom vetoed the bill due to concerns about its impact on voters.

Let’s learn from Gov. Newsom’s concerns and ensure RCV is implemented in a way that prioritizes the needs and voices of all Connecticut communities. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and equitable democracy for all.

State Rep. Christopher Rosario represents a portion of Bridgeport in the Connecticut General Assembly.