FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Michael J. Garman
August 21, 2023 (401) 644-4108
RHODE ISLAND RANKED CHOICE VOTING MOVEMENT KICKS OFF; FIVE CD-1 CANDIDATES SHOW SUPPORT
WARWICK, RI - Ocean State Ranked Choice Voting, a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization advocating for stronger representation and voter choice in Rhode Island, held its official launch tonight. The highlight of the event was the keynote panel, in which five CD-1 candidates shared their support for Ranked Choice Voting (RCV).
Councilman John Goncalves: “If there are any doubters about [RCV] — it works. It really works.”
Senator Ana Quezada: “If they can do it in Alaska and they can do it in New York City, I think we can implement it here. It’s a great idea.”
Senator Sandra Cano: “We need unity first…[and] ranked choice voting allows that to happen.”
Ms. Stephanie Beauté: “I hope the legislators in the [State] Senate and House will pass this.”
Mr. Gabriel Amo: “Ranked Choice Voting is used in places like Maine, and I’m supportive of trying it out right here.”
Ocean State RCV contacted all 14 candidates who will appear on the CD-1 primary ballots (12 Democrats and two Republicans) to inquire about their positions on Ranked Choice Voting. Each of the six who expressed support were invited to attend.
Following the candidate panel, Ocean State RCV’s volunteer leadership team shared their vision for an inclusive, diverse grassroots movement reflective of the full range of Rhode Islanders’ identities, experiences, and political beliefs.
More information about Ranked Choice Voting and Ocean State RCV is available at oceanstatercv.org.