Definition
A state where both major parties have similar levels of support. Also called "battleground states."
More Elections Terms
Absentee Ballot
A ballot submitted by a voter who cannot or chooses not to vote in person.
Ballot Initiative
A process allowing citizens to propose new laws by collecting signatures and placing the measure on the ballot.
Delegate
A person selected to represent their state at a party's national convention.
Early Voting
A period before Election Day during which voters can cast their ballots in person.
Electoral College
The system used to elect the president. A candidate needs 270 of 538 electoral votes to win.
General Election
The election held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November in even-numbered years.