Many states have been changing their voting rules for primaries and general elections to enhance inclusivity and participation. For instance, several states have adopted or considered implementing Ranked Choice Voting (RCV), which allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference. Maine is a notable example, having used RCV in its elections, which can help ensure that elected representatives have broader support than a simple plurality might provide.

Regarding the election method, there's a strong argument for using a majority rather than a simple plurality to ensure that the elected representative has the support of more than half the voters. This can lead to more representative outcomes, especially in diverse electoral landscapes.

If you're focusing on New Hampshire's efforts to adopt RCV, it's a great case study of how states are navigating the complexities of electoral reform. Have you found any specific examples of how these changes have impacted voter turnout or engagement?

• Agenda:
  • 11:45 AM Check-in and choose your meal
  • 12:00 PM presentation
  • 12:50 PM lunch
  • 1:30 PM presentation resumes/Q&A
• Meal Choices
  • Baked Haddock with organic brown rice
  • Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
  • Steak & Cheese (Jesse's version of a Philly Cheesesteak) with steakhouse fries
  • Pesto Linguine

Cost:
Members: $35
Non-Members: $45

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Instructor Bruce Garland: Bruce graduated from McGill and spent two years in Tanzania with the Canadian version of the Peace Corps. He then joined Price Waterhouse in Paris, France, before moving to JP Morgan. There, his career shifted from accountancy to computer processing. He became a change manager for the development and implementation of computer systems in the financial business. After a dozen years in France, JP Morgan transferred the Garlands to its headquarters in New York City and then to Tokyo. Returning to NYC, Bruce joined the Bloomberg organization, where he became Chief Operating Officer of an electronic stock broker-dealer.

After retiring, Ann and Bruce moved to Lebanon, where Bruce served for seven years on the Planning Board, three as Chair. He is now Treasurer of NH Ranked Choice Voting, a 501(c)(4) organization that educates New Hampshire voters about and advocates for Ranked Choice Voting, also known as Instant Runoffs.