Joanne Schueth (letter, June 21) has unfounded concerns about ranked-choice voting and this month’s referendum.
Ranked choice voting has no inherent benefits for any party. It provides relatively inexpensive instant run-offs when no candidate receives a majority.
Ranked-choice voting respects the preferences of those who would be happy with their second choice, even if their first choice loses. Marking a second choice on the ballot is entirely voluntary. Anyone who is wedded to a single candidate is free to check only that candidate’s name on the ballot.
Schueth deplores out-of-state money, incessant TV advertising, and confusingly worded ballot questions. I agree. Unfortunately those elements have afflicted elections for quite some time.
Yet, I am confident that Maine voters are smart enough to see beyond those tactics and deficiencies. The majority has supported ranked-choice voting in two consecutive referendums — by 52 percent in 2016 and by an even greater majority this month.
It is time for the opponents to accept and abide by the will of the majority, instead of blaming outsiders for choices that Mainers knowingly and willingly make.
Anne Williams, Lewiston
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