Ranked choice voting can be reality if voters push for it
We’re grateful to the Sun-Times for the resounding support for ranked choice voting (RCV) in its recent editorial. Turnout in the primary election was concerning, and we agree reform to our election system is needed. Voicing support for RCV is an important first step. But concerned citizens need to become actively involved in changing the system.
The great news is that there’s an active and growing movement here in Illinois for RCV. FairVote Illinois is a statewide nonprofit solely focused on bringing ranked choice voting to all levels of Illinois government. In 2022 our group led an advocacy campaign to help bring ranked choice voting to city elections in Evanston by way of a binding referendum. Voters overwhelmingly favored the reform; it won with over 82% voting to use RCV for municipal elections beginning in April 2025.
The majority of RCV implementations across the country have happened by ballot initiative — an ambitious process that relies on a strong base of dedicated volunteers. In Illinois, home rule municipalities have the ability to vote for ranked choice voting, including through ballot initiatives. That’s where much of FairVote Illinois’ efforts are focused right now. We have volunteers on the ground circulating petitions in Oak Park, Naperville and Skokie to give voters a choice to use RCV for their local elections. We’re also continuing education and coalition work in Chicago, where runoffs and large candidate fields make it an ideal place for RCV. And we’re always looking for volunteers in new places across the state to build up local support.
So if you’re worried, get involved. Active participation is needed for democracy to thrive. There are many election and democracy reform movements out there. If you want to help bring RCV to Illinois, you can join the movement by signing up at FairVoteIllinois.org. Regardless of what you advocate for, if you care, it’s crucial that you get involved. Rebecca Williams, statewide organizer, FairVote Illinois, Willowbrook