Instant Runoff Voting

I read a blog just a few minutes ago regarding the Franken/Coleman race, and how underserved we as voters are since a fraction less than 50% of the voters chose the winner.

I felt compelled to write a comment, which I've copied here:

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As much as I would love to see instant runoff voting, and the power it would give voters, I don't think we'll see it anytime soon.

How great it would be to support a candidate who believes in your values but doesn't need to pander to the center/swing voters, or romance contributions from wealthy benefactors! Unfortunately, I think it's a dream.

Quite often we hear about people "choosing the lesser evil," because they know the candidate who most closely fits their ideals does not have backing of a major political party, or enough cash. Suddenly, the inherent power of IRV could allow anyone regardless of their fundraising ability to be elected. The media would recognize this, and we could see debates not between 2 candidates, but many. A man who has a meager bank account who shines at a debate could quickly gain momentum rivaling that of a major political party with very little amounts of advertising.

The new rules would have devastating effect to the standing Republican and Democratic parties by strengthening dark horse/unaffiliated candidates, and minor political parties in the US, seriously changing the political landscape. The two major parties in the US stand only to lose power power by instant runoff voting. The stability of their future would be greatly threatened. I would expect the most motivated people in American politics, those employed by the major political parties, to prevent this from getting on any ballot.

Unfortunately, politics is all about power and money in this country. And those who have it want it to stay that way.