Election Key Terms

A process where people are given the opportunity to choose representatives who will form representative institutions and government 

A statement produced by a political party at election times, stating what policies it intends to implement if it gains power

Refers to thee authority to govern granted to the winning party at an election by the voters. The mandate suggests that the government may implement the measures in its election manifesto (the doctrine of mandate and manifesto). It also implies that the government has the authority to use its judgement in dealing with unforseen circumstances (the doctor's mandate)

A system that converts votes in an election into seats. May also refer to the process of electing a single leader, such as a president or a mayor

A political system which tends to throw up a government that enjoys a majority within representative institutions and therefore is able to dominate party politics 

• A characteristic of political systems
• E.g, UK
• Executive dominates the legislature

• Governments tend to survive full term
• Unlikely to be removed between elections

Candidate must win overall majority (over 50% of votes cast)

Winner does not require overall majority, just more votes than any other candidate

Votes converted into seats in a broadly proportional way

Changes made to electoral system or campaign for change