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House approves extending ranked‑choice method to general elections for governor and legislature; opponents cite constitutional concerns
Summary
After hours of debate, the House voted 71–52 to pass a bill applying ranked‑choice tabulation to general elections for governor and the Legislature. Supporters said the change completes a single‑tabulation process and ensures majority winners; opponents called the move inconsistent with the state constitution and warned of voter confusion.
The Maine House on Feb. 3 voted to extend ranked‑choice tabulation to general elections for governor, state senator and state representative, passing the measure on a 71–52 roll call.
Supporters led by Representative Lee (Auburn) argued the bill clarifies the mechanics of ranked‑choice counting and ensures that the final tabulation reflects all lawful voter preferences in a single tabulation process. "Ranked choice voting is one election, one ballot, one tabulation," Lee said, citing court decisions and procedural precedents.
Opponents, including Representative Poiler and others, warned the proposal treads on constitutional language that the House should not lightly reinterpret. Several members said voters remain confused about ranked‑choice ballots and urged caution.
After committee reports, floor amendments, and multiple speakers from both sides of the aisle, the House engrossed the bill and ordered it sent for concurrence to the Senate. The clerk announced the final roll call and the House directed that the bill be sent forward.
