Electoral Systems Questions
The single transferable vote (STV) electoral system is a proportional representation voting method used in multi-member constituencies. In this system, voters rank candidates in order of preference on the ballot. To be elected, a candidate must reach a specific quota of votes, which is determined by the total number of valid votes cast and the number of seats available. If a candidate exceeds the quota, their surplus votes are transferred to the next preference on those ballots. If no candidate reaches the quota, the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated, and their votes are transferred to the next preference on those ballots. This process continues until all seats are filled. STV aims to ensure fair representation by allowing voters to express their preferences and by distributing seats proportionally based on the votes received.