Local liberals push for ranked choice voting after commission declines ballot measure

During the Whatcom County Charter Review Commission meeting on July 10, 2025, a significant discussion emerged surrounding the controversial topic of ranked choice voting. The commission recently decided not to advance a proposal to place ranked choice voting on the ballot, prompting a notable reaction from community members.

One resident expressed concern over the apparent push from local liberals to gather signatures for a ballot initiative on ranked choice voting, particularly in light of the commission's decision. This individual highlighted the irony of liberal commissioners suggesting that conservatives would benefit from ranked choice voting, while noting a lack of support for the initiative among local conservative groups. The resident emphasized that moderate Democrats are also questioning the motivations behind the efforts led by FairVote Law, an activist group advocating for ranked choice voting.

The resident raised issues regarding transparency, specifically regarding the funding sources of FairVote Law, which operates without the same disclosure requirements as nonprofits. This lack of clarity has led to unease among community members about the integrity of the campaign for ranked choice voting. Additionally, concerns were voiced about the complexity and costs associated with implementing ranked choice voting, referencing a recent repeal of the system in Pierce County as a cautionary example.

As the meeting concluded, the public comment underscored the ongoing debate about electoral reform in Whatcom County, highlighting the need for informed discussions among community members about the implications of ranked choice voting. The commission's decision not to move forward with the proposal has sparked further dialogue, suggesting that this issue will remain a focal point in local politics.