Rank The Vote

07/08/2025

When 65 percent of Americans say they feel exhausted just thinking about politics, that should be a warning sign that something’s not quite right. Our outdated voting methods contribute to our hyper-polarized politics, which is likely putting our cortisol levels in overdrive. In Michigan, a growing grassroots coalition believes it’s time for an upgrade. Their solution? Ranked choice voting, a simple reform with the potential to reshape how democracy works and feels for everyday people.

Leading that effort is Rank MI Vote, a nonpartisan organization launching a citizen-led ballot initiative to put RCV on the 2026 statewide ballot. Many of its volunteers were also part of the 2018 movement that passed Michigan’s landmark anti-gerrymandering amendment. They consider ranked choice voting a logical next step in Michigan’s long tradition of building toward fairer, more representative elections.

“In today’s polarized political climate, voters are hungry for meaningful ways to make a difference,” said Pat Zabawa, executive director of Rank MI Vote. “Our initiative offers a hopeful path forward—one that empowers people, strengthens our democracy, and ensures every voice counts.“

The upcoming 2026 gubernatorial election is also shaping that urgency, Pat said. With Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan planning to run as an independent, Michiganders will soon see firsthand how traditional plurality voting can lead to vote-splitting and distorted outcomes.

“With this on the top of voters’ minds, the race makes explaining vote splitting and its stakes easy to understand to voters who are new to RCV,” Pat said.

This isn’t just theoretical for political wonks. Real-world examples from states like Maine and Alaska provide a blueprint for how it can work.

One of the most striking things about this campaign is its inclusivity. From day one, Rank MI Vote has worked to build a Big Tent movement.

“We’re proud of the coalition we’ve built—one that includes community organizations, election officials, and political parties—all working together to craft a pragmatic, straightforward improvement to the way we vote, with meaningful impacts on representation,” Pat said.

As the campaign moves into full swing, it’s a chance for everyday people to take the reins of our democracy. Whether you’re deeply invested in politics or just sick and tired of the same hyper-polarized patterns, the campaign that’s underway in Michigan is one tangible way to give the system a much needed upgrade.