The Center for Election Science

Why We’re Starting Early This year, The Center for Election Science (CES) is launching our end-of-year campaign earlier than ever. Democracy nonprofits across the country are facing shrinking grants and cautious funders, and we cannot afford “business as usual.” The 2026 election year will bring new challenges—and new opportunities—to push for a better way to vote. To meet this moment, CES is preparing ambitious pilot studies in Maryland and Utah that can set the stage for nationwide reform. Our Mission At CES, we believe in putting people—not parties—at the center of our democracy. Through approval voting , voters can select all the candidates they support, ensuring winners reflect broad consensus, not narrow bases. Approval voting is simple, cost-effective, and transformative . It prevents vote-splitting, builds trust, and produces leaders with real mandates. Why Your Support Matters Now Launching these pilots requires a strong financial foundation. We’ve set a clear goal: Raise $350,000 by November 1st. Meeting this goal will: Ensure the Maryland and Utah pilots launch on time Intensify our grassroots and legislative efforts in Utah Amplify our message & ensure democracy is resilient Join Us This campaign isn’t just about dollars—it’s about fueling change. Every gift you make powers a future where leaders are chosen by consensus, not chance. Will you stand with us at this pivotal moment? Together, We Can Make Reform Real Thank you for believing in this mission. With your support, we can show that democracy can be smarter, fairer, and more representative—one election at a time.

While it’s become commonplace to hear that American democracy is in crisis, it's essential to recognize that our democracy isn't beyond repair; it's primed for renewal. During in-person focus groups with Ohio voters last year, we found enduring pride in the vote, and a yearning for more engagement with leaders, not less. They want their vote to matter. That's why The Center for Election Science is so important: We investigate the conditions and policy solutions that will renew American democracy. As this divisive election approaches, more people than ever, both outside government and within, are ready for reform. That's why we're launching our pivotal "Spring of Action" campaign to supercharge our research and advocacy efforts. Our Goal: We've set a goal to raise at least $100,000 this Spring to support our advocacy and education initiatives. Your Impact: By participating in this challenge, your contribution will be matched $1 for $1 up to $50,000, amplifying your impact and motivating others to join our cause. Your support will fuel: Legislative Advocacy: Help us expand our support in the Maryland legislature and beyond, advocating for approval voting—a method supported by 65% of Maryland voters according to our recent poll. Grassroots Organizing in Michigan: We have boots on the ground in Michigan driving conversations about reform. We will engage several communities, including reform organizations, elected officials, elections officials, municipal governments, and more. Research and Education: Your contribution will ignite a new era of research, as we partner with first-class institutions to conduct behavioral studies that deepen our understanding of voting, and how reform will impact the individual. Funding will also expand our research studies in Ohio and California. Join the Movement: With the 2024 election on the horizon, there's no better time to invest in a movement that champions a more inclusive and representative electoral process. Your donation to our Spring of Action Challenge is not just a contribution; it's a statement of belief in the renewal of our democracy. Stand with us as we seize this moment to reshape the future of American elections. Together, we can reach our $100K goal by May 31, 2024