Burlington, Vt became the 2nd major city after San Francisco to use instant runoff voting to save the mayor's seat from Republicans.
Democrats didn't get it, but it went to a Democratic Party ally, the Progressive Party. Bernie Sander will go to the Senate as a member of that party and a Democratic Party ally.
Why aren't Democrats around the country jumping to pass IRV legislation?
It solves the "spoiler" problem and empowers Democratic Party allies.
Some are afraid that will destroy the Democratic Party. Like right! Yes they will lose a few seats, but in the process the party will be nudged to become slightly more progressive. Otherwise how do you see it happening.
Do you think the corporatists who control the Democratic Party are going to give up that plum unless there is a strong 3rd party movement building? Another war, more Patriot Act - it's going to get stronger.
So in Md Democrats with a veto proof majority in both houses of the legislature killed IRV in a committee.
It can still be done in the house.
Vermont has a chance with bills in both houses. These go beyond Burlington; they apply to state and federal levels where spoiling really counts.
It's not rocket science; it's political will. Smart Democrats will be lobbying for this political reform sooner rather than later. 2008 is coming fast.
More info at my diaries