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LD 668

An Act To Abolish Ranked-Choice Voting

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeff Adams and 9 co-sponsors

Bill eliminates Maine's ranked-choice voting system, reverting to plurality voting where the candidate receiving the most votes wins elections regardless of majority status.

Pursuant to Joint Rule 310.3 Placed in Legislative Files (DEAD)
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Bill Summary · LD 668

Legislative bill overview

LD 668 proposes to eliminate Maine's ranked-choice voting (RCV) system and return to plurality voting, where the candidate with the most votes wins regardless of whether they achieve a majority. Maine adopted RCV in 2016 for primary elections and expanded it to general elections in 2020, making it one of the first states to implement this system at the statewide level.

Why is this important

This bill addresses a fundamental question about how Maine conducts elections. RCV affects candidate viability, voter choice expression, and election outcomes—particularly in races with multiple candidates. The voting method influences which candidates run for office, how campaigns operate, and which candidates ultimately win, making it a consequential policy decision.

Potential points of contention

  • Election integrity and voter intent: Supporters argue RCV is unnecessarily complex and risks voter confusion; opponents contend it better reflects voter preferences and reduces "spoiler" effects in multi-candidate races
  • Cost and implementation: RCV requires different ballot design and tabulation systems; proponents of abolishing it cite administrative and equipment costs, while supporters see this as a worthwhile investment in voter choice
  • Voter turnout and candidate diversity: Critics worry elimination could discourage candidates and suppress participation in races with strong frontrunners; advocates argue RCV hasn't demonstrably improved outcomes despite its complexity

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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