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Simple English definitions for legal terms
at-large election
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A quick definition of at-large election:
An at-large election is when a public official is chosen from a large area instead of a smaller part of that area. For example, instead of choosing a city council member from a specific neighborhood, they are chosen by the entire city. This type of election is different from a by-election, which is held to fill a vacant position, and a general election, which happens regularly. Other types of elections include primary elections, where political parties choose their candidates, and recall elections, where voters can remove a public official from office.
A more thorough explanation:
An at-large election is a type of election where a public official is chosen from a larger election district instead of a smaller subdivision within that district. This means that voters from the entire district can vote for the same candidate, rather than just those in a specific area.
For example, in a city council election, candidates may be elected at-large, meaning that all voters in the city can vote for any candidate, rather than just those in a specific ward or district.
This type of election can be beneficial for promoting diversity and representation, as candidates may be more likely to appeal to a wider range of voters. However, it can also make it more difficult for candidates from minority groups or less populated areas to be elected.