Additional Member System

Definition

The Additional Member System (AMS) is a hybrid electoral system used to elect representatives in some areas, combining elements of both first-past-the-post and proportional representation. It allows voters to cast two votes: one for a candidate in their local constituency and another for a party list, which helps ensure that the overall composition of the elected body reflects the proportion of votes received by each party. This system aims to balance the benefits of direct representation with the need for proportionality in election outcomes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Additional Member System is notably used in elections for the Scottish Parliament, Welsh Senedd, and the London Assembly.
2. In AMS, approximately half of the total seats are filled through constituency votes while the other half comes from party lists to achieve proportionality.
3. AMS encourages smaller parties to gain representation as it diminishes the winner-takes-all aspect found in first-past-the-post systems.
4. The system can lead to coalition governments, as no single party often achieves an outright majority due to the diverse representation.
5. Voters appreciate having two votes, as it allows them to support a local candidate while also expressing their preference for a political party.

Review Questions

• How does the Additional Member System combine elements of both first-past-the-post and proportional representation?
  • The Additional Member System merges first-past-the-post and proportional representation by allowing voters two votes: one for a local candidate and another for a political party. This combination ensures that while individual constituencies are represented by their elected candidates, the overall results reflect the proportional share of votes that parties receive across the larger electorate. As a result, AMS aims to balance local representation with broader party support, addressing some limitations inherent in purely majoritarian systems.
• Evaluate the impact of the Additional Member System on political diversity within legislatures.
  • The Additional Member System has a significant impact on political diversity within legislatures by reducing barriers for smaller parties and independent candidates. Since AMS incorporates party lists, it enables these groups to secure representation even if they do not win many local constituency seats. Consequently, this leads to a more varied political landscape and encourages coalition-building, reflecting a wider range of views and interests within government. It challenges traditional dominance by larger parties often seen in first-past-the-post systems.
• Assess how voter behavior is influenced by having two votes in the Additional Member System compared to other electoral systems.
  • Voter behavior in the Additional Member System is influenced significantly by the option to cast two votes, allowing individuals to strategically support both a preferred local candidate and a political party. This dual voting approach can lead voters to prioritize different criteria for each vote—favoring local connections for their constituency choice while selecting based on party ideology or platform for their second vote. This contrasts with systems like first-past-the-post, where voters may feel pressured to choose only from front-running candidates, potentially stifling expression of preferences and reducing voter turnout.

Related terms

First-Past-The-Post: An electoral system where the candidate with the most votes in a single-member district wins, often leading to a lack of proportionality in results.

Proportional Representation: An electoral system that aims to create a close match between the percentage of votes received by each party and the percentage of seats they gain in the legislature.

Party List System: A form of proportional representation where voters choose a party rather than individual candidates, and parties receive seats based on the proportion of votes they receive.