Cumulative voting

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Cumulative voting (sometimes called the single divisible vote) is a variant on the single non-transferable vote (SNTV), which differs in that it permits voters to split their support across multiple candidates. This can simplify strategic voting, by allowing larger groups of voters to elect multiple representatives by splitting their vote between multiple candidates. This removes the complexity associated with randomized or coordinated strategies. Apart from this, the method is equivalent to SNTV, and generally produces similar results (especially if voters are informed and rational, in which case they will tend to engage in plumping.

Cumulative voting can also be thought of as a variant on score voting, where the total scores for each candidate must add up to a fixed value (e.g. 100%). If instead the sum of squares must add up to a fixed value, the method becomes quadratic voting.^[1][2]

Cumulative voting is semi-proportional, allowing for more representative government than winner-take-all elections using block plurality voting or block instant-runoff voting. Cumulative voting is commonly-used in corporate governance, where it is mandated by 7 U.S. states.^[3]

The method can also be used in participatory budgeting.^[4]