You've got this backwards. Under Approval Voting, it is always safe to vote honestly for your true favorite, which increases the visibility (and perception of

You've got this backwards. Under Approval Voting, it is always safe to vote honestly for your true favorite, which increases the visibility (and perception of electability) of third parties. Under IRV, it is not safe to put your honest favorite as your primary choice, or you risk creating a spoiler effect that helps the greater of two evils win.