Texan Voices Unite: Advocating for Ranked-Choice Voting Bans and Foreign Funding Restrictions

Texas Politicians Confront Ranked-Choice Voting and Foreign Influence

The conversation around electoral integrity and transparency is heating up in Texas. The Honest Elections Project Action has launched a robust digital ad campaign, aiming to drive legislative change by encouraging Texas lawmakers to pass significant bills targeting ranked-choice voting (RCV) and foreign funding of ballot issues. This initiative comes in response to escalating concerns about the effectiveness of RCV and the influence of foreign money on local elections.

On May 5, 2025, the organization revealed its campaign, which notably includes eye-catching mobile billboards situated near the Texas Capitol. Their objective is clear: promote the swift passage of SB 310—the legislation seeking to ban RCV—and SB 2035—which aims to put an end to foreign monetary contributions in state election processes.

Jason Snead, the Executive Director of Honest Elections Project Action, asserts, "As states nationwide stand against ranked-choice voting and foreign infiltration in our democratic processes, Texas must not lag behind. We call on the Texas Senate to advance SB 2035, safeguarding American citizens' voices from being overshadowed by influence from abroad. Additionally, it's high time for Texas to outlaw RCV, following the footsteps of 16 other states who have already acted to preserve confidence in their electoral systems."

The Case Against Ranked-Choice Voting

Several states across the nation have opted to ban RCV due to perceived complexities and a lack of public understanding. Critics argue that RCV can muddle election results and create confusion among voters, undermining trust in the electoral process. In recent history, proposals for RCV implementation have faced significant hurdles; for instance, in 2024, six states rejected measures advocating RCV.

Moreover, cities that have previously piloted RCV have often reverted to simpler voting methods. Reports indicate that in Utah, over half of the cities participating in a RCV pilot program withdrew, citing issues with voter confusion and a decline in trust. These examples fuel the argument that Texas should carefully consider its stance on RCV, particularly as new legislations like SB 310 come into play.

Tackling Foreign Funding in Elections

Another critical component of the current legislative push involves limiting foreign funding in local campaigns. Recent revelations highlight how foreign billionaires, such as Swiss national Hansjörg Wyss, have funneled substantial amounts—over $280 million—through various political action committees into local ballot initiatives nationwide, including nearly $100,000 in Texas endeavors. While U.S. law prohibits foreign nationals from directly contributing to candidates and PACs, loopholes exist concerning ballot issues. Six states have already enacted measures to close these gaps.

The realization that foreign interests can sway local elections raises alarms over the integrity of democratic processes. Honest Elections Project Action emphasizes that by passing SB 2035, Texas can join the ranks of states proactively shutting the door on foreign influences in local electoral matters.

As the Texas Senate prepares to deliberate on SB-310 and SB-2035, the call for action from advocacy groups and concerned citizens alike reinforces the urgent need for legislation that promotes voter confidence and transparency. The path forward will surely be closely monitored by citizens eager to ensure that their state's elections remain free from external influences and complex voting methods that complicate the electoral landscape.

In conclusion, the legislative efforts surrounding ranked-choice voting and foreign funding bans underscore a greater movement towards electoral integrity in America. Texas, an influential state, stands at a crossroads, and its decisions could impact future elections across the nation. With the eyes of the nation upon them, Texas lawmakers have an opportunity to set a precedent for ensuring that elections are both accessible and understandable for all voters, thereby preserving the foundational principles of democracy.