# They said it: Ranked-choice voting to lower election costs?

> Source: <https://www.mercurynews.com/2026/06/28/they-said-it-ranked-choice-voting-to-lower-election-costs/>
> Published: 2026-06-28 12:30:12+00:00

**Getting your**

[Trinity Audio](//trinityaudio.ai)player ready...“Yes, elections are expensive, especially in California … but sometimes, the costs of elections are some of the best and most cost-effective expenditures a government can make.”

*— Retired Santa Clara County Assessor Larry Stone, pushing back on San Jose’s vote last week to explore a measure for the June 2028 ballot that would allow ranked-choice voting in special elections. Advocates argue it would eliminate the cost of a second, runoff election but critics say the complex process could undermine public confidence in the vote.*