Ranked-Choice Voting

Expressed support for ranked-choice voting as a way to achieve greater equity in local elections.

Supported ranked-choice voting and a single unified election, arguing it fosters majority rule and enfranchises voters currently locked out of closed primaries.

Discussed the debate around eliminating primaries and argued that a single unified election would bring in voters whose opinions align with the majority of Democrats.

Presented research from other cities showing increased voter turnout after adopting ranked-choice voting and addressed council questions on campaign costs and implementation.

Former council member spoke in favor of nonpartisan municipal elections and ranked-choice voting, noting that nonpartisan elections are the national norm.

Expressed opposition to ranked-choice voting, arguing it undermines political parties and that the proposal is a predetermined outcome.

Expressed support for ranked-choice voting as a way to combat one-party rule and give third-party and independent voters a meaningful voice.

Shared personal experience of being registered independent and feeling disenfranchised in Albany, urging support for ranked-choice voting.

Shared her background immigrating from Australia and noted that Australia successfully uses a preferential voting system similar to ranked-choice voting.

Spoke as an unaffiliated voter in Albany for 25 years who feels excluded by closed primaries, supporting ranked-choice voting.

Co-chair of Ranked Choice Voting Albany reviewed the mechanics of the proposal and cited numerous U.S. cities successfully using the model.

Expressed support for a single unified ranked election and encouraged council members to establish process norms and engage with constituents.

Expressed frustration with committee leadership regarding closed-door opposition and late notification for public meetings.

Shared positive door-knocking experiences showing most voters warm up to ranked-choice voting after a brief explanation.

Asked the council not to advance the unified election petition as written while supporting ranked-choice voting inside primaries.

Argued that independent voters deserve a voice and noted that 3,500+ Albany residents signed the petition for a unified election.

Emphasized that current closed primaries leave out two-thirds of voters and that data shows higher turnout in cities with unified ranked-choice voting.