Democracy + Elections
Montana: So Close to Better Elections
Primaries featuring more choice for voters and candidates almost became the law in Big Sky Country.
Almost One in Three Idahoans Wanted Open Primaries and Instant Runoff Elections
In the reddest patch of Cascadia, a sizable minority of voters wished for a system to thwart spoilers, promote cooperation, and allow participation beyond partisan labels.
Oregon Elections Will Continue to Suffer Spoiler Candidates
The state’s voters rejected Measure 117 to implement ranked choice voting in the state, though notably not in places where voters use ranked choice voting locally.
Portland Voters are Shifting into a Higher Gear
More choices mean more legwork but should lead to a more effective and representative government.
Idaho Has a Spoiler Problem
Closed primaries exclude voters, encourage divisive behavior, and can subvert the will of Idahoans.
What’s Different in Alaska Since Election Laws Changed
How Alaskans have responded to nonpartisan open primaries and ranked choice voting.
Montana’s Plurality Problem
Political gamesmanship and the spoiler effect prevent majority winners in some of the Treasure State’s most impactful elections.
Despite Candidate Dropouts, Alaska Elections Are Becoming More Competitive
A dozen candidates removed themselves from 2024’s general election, but voters still have plenty to choose from.
Ranked Choice Voting Already Passed Its First Test in Oregon
Benton County and Corvallis transitioned smoothly to the revised method.
A Guide to Alaska’s November 2024 Election
Ranked choice voting for president and other offices, plus deciding on whether to keep open primaries and ranked choice voting.