Bill > A00090

This bill establishes a ranked choice voting (RCV) method for nonpartisan primary elections in New York, beginning in 2027. Under this system, voters can rank up to five candidates in order of preference on a single ballot, rather than voting for just one candidate. If no candidate receives a majority of first-choice votes, the candidate with the fewest first-choice votes is eliminated, and their voters' ballots are redistributed to their next-ranked candidates. This process continues until only two candidates remain, who then advance to the general election. All registered voters can participate regardless of party affiliation, and all candidates will be listed together on the same ballot. The state board of elections is tasked with creating rules for implementing this method and conducting a voter education campaign to help citizens understand the new voting system. The bill aims to provide more voter choice and potentially elect candidates with broader support by allowing voters to express preferences beyond their top choice. The new voting method will apply to state, local, and federal primary elections (except presidential primaries) starting in 2027, when more than two candidates are nominated for an office.

Government Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A90