Voice vote

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A voice vote in a legislative body refers to a vote taken on a topic where the participants merely respond verbally to a question with a spoken "yea" (yes), "nay" (no), or "present" (abstain) vote. Typically the chairperson or speaker of the assembly will ask a question to the effect of "All in favor?" followed by "All opposed?" and so on. The decision is then decided based on the chairperson or speaker's discretion, although it can be challenged. In such a case, if a certain proportion of the assembly agrees, a recorded vote or division vote takes place.

As a result—when utilizing the voice vote procedure—no names or numbers on who voted for what are recorded due to its impracticality, and the record will often stand as something to the effect of "unanimously approved by Voice Vote." This tactic is used when the matter in question is either uncontroversial or paradoxically when the matter at hand is quite controversial and participants wish to enjoy "political cover."

Alternative formulations for the vote, depending on the custom of the body, include "aye" for the affirmative and "no" for the negative.