The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for June 16, 2026
District of Columbia voters use ranked choice voting for the first time June 16 in DC’s Democratic primary. A group which helped pass the election reform reminds voters to “‘Vote for the best. Rank the rest. Don’t rank candidates you detest.”
Pro-reform groups Grow Democracy and Rank the District spearheaded Initiative 83, which passed with almost 73% of the vote in 2024. Initially, the DC city council dragged its feet on funding the reform, but finally appropriated the money last July.
This election includes primaries for DC delegate to Congress, mayor, city council, and Democratic Party positions. In the past, city council candidates could get elected with as little as 20% of the vote, something which will change with ranked choice voting.
Using RCV, if a candidate receives 50% of the vote they win outright. If not, the lowest candidate is eliminated, and their next choice votes are reallocated in rounds until a candidate eventually reaches a majority. The process allows voters to choose their favorite without being a spoiler, and can encourage more collegiality among candidates.
Though the city and democracy groups have conducted education campaigns, a June 1st Washington Post poll found 44% of voters weren’t aware RCV was being implemented. Election officials warned voters to expect lines and slower election results. We’ve linked to DC’s ranked choice voting explainers at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org. I’m Brian Beihl.
Today’s Links
Articles & Resources:
DC Board of Elections – District of Columbia Voter Guide
Rank the District – How to rank your ballot
The 51st – The 51st’s D.C. voter guide
WAMU – Ranked choice voting is coming to D.C. elections. How does it work?
FairVote – How ranked choice voting is impacting the Washington, DC primary
Opportunity DC – RCV 101
Related ADM Reports:
American Democracy Minute – (2025) In NYC’s June 24th Primary, 11 Dems Seek Nomination for Mayor. Ranked Choice Voting & Matching Funds Helped Give Voters More Choice.
Groups Taking Action:
Grow Democracy DC , Campaign Legal Center, FairVote, Opportunity DC
Register or Check Your Voter Registration:
U.S. Election Assistance Commission – How to Register And Vote in Your State
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