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

Retired Santa Clara County Assessor Larry Stone pushed back on San Jose's vote to explore a ranked-choice voting measure for the June 2028 ballot, arguing that election costs are worthwhile. Advocates say ranked-choice voting would eliminate runoff election costs, but critics warn it could undermine public confidence.

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.