Democratic National Committee faces internal clash over banning ranked-choice voting

During its Austin gathering, the Democratic National Committee worked on election rules and a presidential primary schedule that may favor Kamala Harris, while also considering a motion to prohibit ranked-choice voting. The proposal sparked fierce resistance from Rep. Jamie Raskin, who argued the system keeps the party connected to its base, and from Christine Pelosi, who vowed to vote against the ban. Ranked-choice voting, employed in jurisdictions such as New York City, Maine, Alaska, and Washington, D.C., allows voters to rank candidates and can prevent winners without majority support.

Opponents cite its complexity and expense, pointing to examples where a candidate leading the first round lost after transfers. Proponents contend the method yields outcomes that more accurately mirror voter intent. The debate highlights the broader identity struggle within the Democratic Party as it prepares a new primary calendar that moves South Carolina to the front of the 2028 race.