Cumulative Voting

Episode #2405

A lawsuit in the 1980s resulted in a process for the election of Peoria at-large city councilmen where voters could use cumulative voting. Each voter has five votes, and can cast them for up to five candidates. If a single vote goes to a single candidate, that candidate would receive five votes; votes for two separate candidates would give them each two-and-a-half votes, etc. It's intent was to imrpove the chances of minority representation on the council. A study has shown the process has not benefited the minority candidates. As the city re-districts, there is discussion as to whether to eliminate cumulative voting in favor of an alternative. This program will look at the history and what choices may exist.

Original Air Date(s): 9/29/2011