Single transferable vote

Definition

The single transferable vote (STV) is a voting system designed to achieve proportional representation through ranked voting. Voters rank candidates in order of preference, and votes are redistributed until a predetermined number of candidates is elected, ensuring that votes contribute towards the election of representatives that reflect the electorate's diverse preferences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The single transferable vote allows voters to express their preferences more fully by ranking multiple candidates instead of choosing just one.
2. STV is particularly useful in multi-member districts, where several representatives are elected at once, enhancing proportionality.
3. Votes that exceed a candidate's quota are transferred to other candidates based on voters' preferences, ensuring that more votes count towards electing representatives.
4. The system can lead to a more diverse and representative government, as it often benefits smaller parties and independent candidates.
5. Countries such as Ireland and Malta use STV for their parliamentary elections, showcasing its effectiveness in achieving proportional representation.

Review Questions

• How does the single transferable vote system enhance voter representation compared to traditional voting methods?
  • The single transferable vote system enhances voter representation by allowing individuals to rank candidates in order of preference rather than selecting just one. This means that if a voter's top choice doesn't win, their vote can still count towards their second or third choice. This approach leads to outcomes that better reflect the electorate's preferences and ensures that elected representatives are more representative of diverse opinions within the community.
• Discuss the impact of using the single transferable vote on party dynamics and candidate selection in elections.
  • Using the single transferable vote can significantly alter party dynamics and candidate selection by encouraging collaboration and coalition-building among parties. Since STV promotes proportional representation, smaller parties have a better chance of gaining seats, which can lead to a more diverse political landscape. Additionally, candidates may focus on appealing to a broader range of voters rather than just their base, as they need to earn second or third-choice votes to succeed.
• Evaluate the implications of the single transferable vote on electoral outcomes and democratic governance.
  • The implications of the single transferable vote on electoral outcomes are substantial, as it typically leads to more proportional representation compared to winner-takes-all systems. This increased representation fosters a more inclusive democracy where minority opinions are acknowledged and represented in government. However, it can also lead to fragmented legislatures with numerous parties, potentially complicating governance and coalition-building. Ultimately, STV supports a democratic environment that values diverse perspectives while posing challenges in achieving stable majority coalitions.

Related terms

Proportional Representation: An electoral system where parties gain seats in proportion to the number of votes they receive.

Ranked Choice Voting: A voting system where voters rank candidates in order of preference, allowing for multiple rounds of counting to determine a winner.

Quota: A minimum number of votes required for a candidate to be elected in STV, often calculated using formulas like the Droop or Hare quota.