WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership and School of Public Management and Policy will host an online panel discussion on ranked choice voting in Illinois. This event is free and open to the public, however registration is required.
WHEN: 12-1 p.m. Wednesday, April 19, 2023
WHERE: Online Webinar – Register
DETAILS: Ranked choice voting is a system that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference. The system has gained popularity in recent years based on arguments that it will increase voter choice, promote political moderation and promote more civil and issue-based campaigns. Evanston, Illinois voters elected to adopt the system for their local elections beginning in 2025. Other localities here and the Illinois General Assembly are also discussing how ranked choice voting could be utilized in additional races.
The webinar will bring together experts to explore the potential benefits and challenges of implementing ranked choice voting in Illinois. Panelists include Manuel Gutierrez, a visiting researcher in the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership; John Transue, an associate professor in the UIS School of Politics and International Affairs; and AJ Simmons, research director for the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership. The discussion will be moderated by NPR Illinois.
During the webinar, panelists will explain what exactly ranked choice voting is, where else in America it is utilized and the potential implications of adopting ranked choice voting in Illinois. Panelists will also explore the major findings of academic research on the topic.