What is Ranked Choice Voting?
Ranked choice voting is a method of voting that allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference instead of choosing only one candidate. This method can allow your vote to count toward another candidate if your favorite candidate is eliminated.
RCV can be used to elect one candidate (single-winner ranked choice voting) or to elect multiple candidates at the same time (multi-winner ranked choice voting).
Learn how to mark a ranked choice ballot on Voting with an RCV Ballot.
Why are we using ranked choice voting?
In November 2022, voters in both the City of Portland and Multnomah County approved the use of ranked choice voting in future election:
- City of Portland voters approved Measure 26-228, which amended the city charter to require the use of single-winner ranked choice voting for electing the Mayor and Auditor and of multi-winner ranked choice voting for election of three City Council members in four newly-created geographic districts.
- Multnomah County voters approved Measure 26-232, which amended the county charter to require the use of single-winner ranked choice voting for all County elected officials.
When will voters start using ranked choice voting?
- Starting in November 2024, City of Portland voters will use RCV to elect the Mayor, Auditor, and 12 City Councilors.
- Starting in November 2026, Multnomah County voters will use RCV to elect the County Chair, County Commissioners, the Auditor, and Sheriff.
How will ranked choice voting in the City of Portland work?
On November 5, 2024 the Mayor and Auditor will be elected in city-wide contests using single-winner ranked-choice voting, while 12 Council members (three per district) will be elected using multi-winner ranked-choice voting.
Visit the City of Portland website to learn more about the City’s use of ranked choice voting, including electing City Councilors in multi-member districts.