Winner-take-all

Definition

In the context of elections, a winner-take-all system is one in which the candidate receiving the most votes wins all of a state's electoral votes or delegates, disregarding the margin of victory. This system contrasts with proportional representation, where votes are distributed based on the percentage of total votes each candidate receives.

Related terms

Electoral College: A body of electors established by the United States Constitution, which forms every four years for the sole purpose of electing the president and vice president.

Proportional Representation: An electoral system in which parties gain seats in proportion to the number of votes cast for them.

Plurality System: An electoral system in which candidates can win elections by receiving more votes than any other candidate without needing an absolute majority