Minority Representation in City Government

Paper Summary:

This paper describes and discusses the impact that at-large elections have on minority representation in city government. The paper explains that, contrary to the author's initial assumption, at-large elections have a negative, rather than a positive, impact on minority representation. A proposal is then provided that would help increase the number of minorities elected to city offices.

From the Paper:

"I think a number of methods can be used to increase the number of minorities elected to city offices. Voter registration drives that are convenient to the citizenry should be helpful. Mentoring of possible hopefuls within individual political parties should also be helpful. The news media and influential citizens should pressure the powers at be to appoint minorities when vacancies unexpectedly arise and an interim seat needs to be filled. Cumulative voting is also a possible solution. I've like to see cumulative voting where up to 3 votes can be cast for 1, 2, or 3 candidates. It has given people the flexibility to boost a favorite candidate they feel passionate about with three votes instead of one."

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