Runoff election

Definition

A runoff election is a second round of voting conducted when no candidate achieves the required majority in the initial round. It ensures that the winning candidate has broad support from the electorate.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Runoff elections are commonly used in single-seat elections to ensure a majority winner.
2. They can occur in both primary and general elections.
3. The top two candidates from the initial round typically compete in the runoff.
4. Runoff elections help prevent vote splitting among similar candidates.
5. They may lead to increased voter turnout as more people feel their vote will be decisive.

Review Questions

• Why are runoff elections conducted?
• How do runoff elections help ensure a majority winner?
• What is one potential benefit of holding a runoff election?

Related terms

plurality: A voting system where the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether they have a majority.

majority:

More than half of the total votes cast, required for certain types of election outcomes.

instant-runoff voting: A voting method where voters rank candidates by preference, and votes are redistributed until a candidate achieves a majority.