The May 8 letter to the editor titled “Say ’No' to Rank Choice Voting” made several false assertions about ranked choice voting, and even botched its name. Ranked (not “rank”) choice voting has become increasingly popular in states and local communities across the country because it addresses many problems in our current political system. Ranked choice voting increases voter turnout, decreases negative campaigning, allows consensus candidates to emerge, and allows citizens to vote first for candidates they really want rather than being forced to vote for candidates others consider likely to win.

Voting under ranked choice is very simple. Surveys of Alaskan as well as New York City voters showed that 85-95% considered it easy. In fact, ranked choice still allows voters to vote for only one candidate, if they choose. However, it afford voters the option of indicating whether they have a second or even a third choice on the ballot. If their first choice candidate does not receive a majority, their next choice is then counted. Only candidates who end up with a majority of votes win the election.

The May 8 letter insults older voters by claiming that they aren't capable of identifying second or third choices. This is not only absurd, but ironic given that both of our leading national president candidates are currently approaching their 80th birthdays. According to the logic of this letter, the next leader of the free world will be incapable of making choices.

Proposed bills S2425 and H7540 will allow four years for Rhode Island voters to become familiar with the system before voting in the 2028 presidential primary. Unlike the last few presidential cycles, voters will finally be able to choose the candidates they really prefer without fear of wasting their votes. Help revitalize our democracy. Support ranked choice voting by signing the petition at the following link:  www.OceanStateRCV.org/Petition .

Leah Craiglow, Warwick and Scott Shuler, Providence