Senator Félix Bautista proposes eliminating D’Hondt Method in electoral system

Santo Domingo.- San Juan Senator Félix Bautista has introduced a bill in the Senate seeking to eliminate the D’Hondt Method for electing congressmen, councilors, and district council members in the Dominican Republic. Bautista argues that the current method is “unfair and disproportionate,” failing to reflect the direct correlation between individual votes and seats won. He claims it undermines the popular will, balanced representation, and constitutional principles of equality and minority rights.

The proposed legislation amends Article 295 of the Organic Electoral Law No. 20-23, allowing voters to select candidates directly, regardless of their placement on party lists. This change would apply to deputies, councilors, and municipal district members elected in national territories, excluding overseas deputies, national deputies, and Parlacen members.

If passed, the bill would replace the D’Hondt Method with a simple majority system, where candidates receiving the most valid votes win. Additionally, it would repeal Law 157-13, which established the D’Hondt Method, marking a significant shift in the Dominican Republic’s electoral framework.