What does tactical voting refer to?

Tactical voting involves making a strategic choice during an election rather than simply voting for a preferred candidate based on personal preference. The primary aim of tactical voting is to influence the electoral outcome in a way that avoids the risk of a less desired candidate winning. Voters may choose to support a candidate who may not be their first choice but stands a better chance of defeating a less favored opponent. This behavior can significantly impact election results, especially in situations where there are multiple candidates or parties, and the dynamics of vote-splitting come into play.

In scenarios where voters perceive that their preferred candidate is unlikely to win, they might opt to vote for a more viable candidate who aligns more closely with their political views, thereby ensuring that their vote contributes to a more favorable overall outcome. Hence, tactical voting serves as a calculated approach that enhances the effectiveness of one's vote with a specific outcome in mind.