How do you Count a Majority Vote?

While this question, on its face, might seem basic, it is often the cause of many disagreements at meetings! People tend to believe several myths and misconceptions when it comes to calculating a majority vote, but these tend to be incorrect. Fear not, I will provide you with the correct answer, as well as explain why common misconceptions are incorrect.

What is the definition of “majority”?

According to Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (11th edition), the term majority means “more than half” (page 400). Yes, it’s that simple!

What is the definition of “majority vote”?

Expanding on the definition of “majority,” Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised (11th edition) defines majority vote as “direct approval…registered by more than half of the members present and voting on a particular matter” (page 4). So, in layman’s terms, majority vote means more than half of the votes cast.

How do you calculate a majority vote?

Calculating a majority vote can be done in three simple steps! First, count the total number of votes cast (excluding abstentions, people not voting, and illegal votes such as “Mickey Mouse”). Second, divide that number by 2. Third, determine whether either side received votes greater than that number. Here are some examples:

• A motion received 7 votes for, 4 votes against, and 3 abstentions. The total number of votes cast is 11 (7 votes for + 4 votes against). 11 divided by 2 is 5.5. Because the 7 votes for is greater than 5.5, the motion would pass by majority vote.
• A motion received 10 votes for and 10 votes against. The total number of votes cast is 20 (10 votes for + 10 votes against). 20 divided by 2 is 10. Because the 10 votes in favor is not greater than 10, this motion would fail by majority vote.

Myth 1: Majority means 50% + 1

This is a popular misconception. To disprove it, I like to point to the United States Supreme Court. When all 9 justices vote on whether to issue a majority opinion, it takes 5 votes to do so. If we apply this incorrect definition, it would take 6 votes (50% of 9 is 4.5. Plus 1 is 5.5, meaning at least 6 justices would have to vote because each only has on vote).

Myth 2: Majority means 51%

This definition is incorrect because it assumes that everyone carries one vote. In stock corporations and condominium associations, carrying fractional votes is very common. For example, if I own 1.000579% of a company, that means my vote is weighed 1.000579. In a very close election, if I was the deciding vote, that may very well mean that the Director was elected with 50.000579% of the votes, which would meet the correct definition of a majority.

Conclusion

Don’t allow this situation to trip you up! If you have any questions, leave a comment below or contact us. LastMinuteMeetings.net also offers consulting services for corporations, associations, and bodies of all sizes.