Salem voters would decide whether crowded city races use ranked choices

Salem would count votes in rounds using voters' ranked choices. The method would apply when more than two candidates seek one seat, or when candidates outnumber the seats in a multi-seat race. Sections 1 through 7 would take effect in Salem only if city voters accept the act at the required election. Voters would decide at a regular city election held every two years, on or after November 2, 2027, and at least six months after the act passes.

The city clerk, with the board's approval, would set rules for ranked-choice elections. The rules would govern ranked-choice elections in Salem under the act. Rules would cover how to rank at least one write-in candidate and how to resolve ties that earlier rounds cannot settle. An incumbent seeking reelection to the same office would have a reelection label by their name. These provisions would take effect in Salem only after voters accept the act at the required election.

The act would repeal Salem's law establishing preliminary elections. The repeal concerns Chapter 445 of the Acts of 1960, which established preliminary elections in Salem. The repeal would take effect in Salem only if city voters accept the act at the required election. The repeal would take effect in Salem only after voters accept the act at the required election.