@cfrank I initially created an account on this forum after I stumbled upon a thread about "A tweak to IRV to make it a Condorcet method".
It could perhaps generate more lively discussion if new users can comment. Sometimes new people will be more comfortable with a small comment contributing to an ongoing discussion rather than start a whole new topic. Of course though there is a trade-off with potentially more spam. Just a thought to consider.
I saw interesting discussion on this forum and created an account a few months ago. However, I'm not able to comment on existing posts/topics.
I also see that my account has 0 reputation. Perhaps that is why? I think it would be helpful if there was an explanation of how reputation was accumulated and what privileges are granted as reputation is earned. And also what one needs to do to be able to comment on existing posts.