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Majority System

Definition

A majority system is an electoral system in which a candidate must receive more than 50% of the votes to win. If no candidate achieves this in the first round, a runoff election may be held between the top two candidates.

Analogy

Imagine you and your friends are voting on what toppings to get on your pizza. To decide, you all need to agree on one combination that more than half of you like. That's how a majority system works - a candidate needs to get more than half of the votes to win.

Related terms

Single-Member District: In a single-member district, each geographic district elects only one representative to a legislative body.

Plurality System: In a plurality system, the candidate who receives the most votes wins, even if they do not receive an absolute majority of votes.

Runoff Election: A runoff election is held when no candidate obtains an absolute majority in the first round. The top two candidates compete again in a separate election to determine the winner.



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© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.