League of Women Voters advocates proportional representation for Denver council elections

On April 21, 2025, the League of Women Voters of Colorado convened a meeting to discuss alternative voting methods, focusing particularly on the potential for implementing proportional representation in local elections. The dialogue highlighted a growing interest in reforming the electoral system to better reflect the diverse voices within the community.

A key point of discussion was the comparison between Denver's and Portland's city councils, both of which have similar sizes. Advocates suggested that adopting Portland's model could streamline Denver's council by reducing its membership while enhancing representation through proportional methods. The conversation underscored a broader trend toward ranked choice voting (RCV) as the preferred reform, although some participants expressed concerns that this approach might not lead to the desired outcome of proportional representation.

Participants noted that while RCV is gaining momentum, the transition to a multi-winner proportional system remains uncertain. One speaker pointed out that there is no documented instance where an instant runoff voting (IRV) system has successfully evolved into a proportional representation system, raising skepticism about the trajectory of electoral reforms.

The meeting also addressed the complexity of voting systems, with some members arguing that any system beyond the traditional first-past-the-post method is often deemed too complicated. This perspective was challenged, with advocates emphasizing that maintaining a system that distorts outcomes and excludes certain groups is not a viable option. They argued for the necessity of a proportional system to ensure fair representation.

Additionally, the conversation touched on the importance of coalition-building among various groups advocating for these reforms. Participants expressed a desire to identify and connect with other organizations involved in the Denver electoral reform efforts, indicating a collaborative approach to advancing these discussions.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted a critical juncture for electoral reform in Colorado, with a clear push towards exploring proportional representation alongside ranked choice voting. As discussions continue, the League of Women Voters aims to foster a more inclusive electoral process that accurately reflects the community's diverse interests and needs. The next steps will likely involve further coalition-building and public engagement to advocate for these proposed changes.