by Eric Hall
Skagit County government needs broader representation. Ranked Choice Voting (RCV) would be one way to achieve this. Other ways to improve representation would require changes to the current form of our county government by invoking the charter process outlined in our state constitution. The concept of a charter government is more complicated than changing the method by which we vote.
The photo above was taken in the lobby of the county offices. It shows a lack of diversity in former and current Commissioners. There are only four women, one person of color, and very little variation in age or perspective over seventy-three commissioners since 1884.
Ranked Choice Voting could give Skagit voters more options to have their view represented when electing our county commissioners. This could potentially save costs by eliminating the need for a primary. Although the savings may be offset by an increase in the cost of voter education, this may not be as daunting as the current WA Secretary of State implies.
Other jurisdictions are successfully using RCV at State, County, and City level. In 2018, the Washington Voter Rights ACT allowed local governments to change their electoral system to something like RCV. There has also been proposed RCV legislation during multiple legislative sessions including the most recent.
Secretary Hobbes makes a good point about the need to develop education programs for a new way to vote such as RCV. I believe that it is much easier than he implies as is clear from this short, 1.5 minute video. As is evidence by other areas having adopted this system, the challenge is not insurmountable. With clear and concise voter education efforts, we can make RCV accessible and straightforward for Skagit voters.
I would encourage all voters in Skagit to seriously consider supporting Ranked Choice Voting to enhance representation in Skagit County. The benefits of RCV extend beyond merely diversifying the pool of elected officials; they also foster a more inclusive and reflective democracy.
By providing voters with the ability to rank their preferences, RCV ensures that elected officials better reflect the diverse views and priorities of our community. This method reduces the need for costly primaries, streamlining the electoral process and potentially increasing voter turnout and engagement.
The successful adoption of RCV in other jurisdictions serves as a promising precedent. States, counties, and cities nationwide have implemented RCV with positive outcomes, demonstrating that the transition, though initially requiring voter education, is ultimately manageable and beneficial.
In light of the longstanding lack of diversity among our county leaders, it’s time to embrace a system that promotes broader representation and new perspectives. Ranked Choice Voting is a practical step toward a more equitable and dynamic governance, empowering all voices in our community.
Let’s move forward with Ranked Choice Voting to create a more inclusive and representative Skagit County. Your commitment to improving our electoral system can ensure that every voice is heard.
Eric Hall has lived in the Skagit Valley for forty years after having been born and raised in Bellingham. After a career in IT, he continues as a photographer and musician with a passion for outdoor/wildlife photography and classical vocal repertoire. Eric is married, has two adult sons and a beautiful granddaughter.
