UK A-Levels Politics Practice Exam

What electoral system is described by ranking candidates with multiple preferences for a single office?

1. Proportional Representation

2. First Past the Post

3. Supplementary Vote (SV)

4. Simple Majority Vote

The correct answer is: Supplementary Vote (SV)

The supplementary vote (SV) is an electoral system that indeed allows voters to rank candidates with multiple preferences for a single office, making it ideal for situations where there is no clear majority winner. Voters have the opportunity to indicate a first choice and a second choice. If no candidate secures an outright majority of first-choice votes, all candidates except the top two are eliminated, and the second preferences of those who voted for the eliminated candidates are then counted. This process continues until one candidate achieves a majority. This ranking system encourages broader support for candidates and allows voters to express preferences beyond just their top choice, reflecting a more nuanced opinion in the voting process. The supplementary vote is used in various elections in the UK, such as for mayoral elections, thus fostering more inclusive representation by considering voters' subsequent preferences. In contrast to other electoral systems listed, the supplementary vote's unique feature of allowing a second preference distinctly characterizes it, ensuring that the eventual winner has wider support among the electorate.