A special election is an election which is held to fill a seat which has become vacant between regular elections. This type of election may also be known as a by-election or bye-election, depending on the nation in which it is being held. Such elections can be costly to administer and they are usually not politically important, with a relatively low voter turnout being typical at special elections. However, sometimes a special election will provide a political opportunity and an upset can occur to change the balance of the political system.
There are a number of reasons why a special election might need to be held. An incumbent may die in office, for example, leaving a seat empty. An office holder may also resign, be forced out of office, or be recalled or impeached. It is also possible for someone in office to be appointed to a position with the government, in which case it is conventional to resign in many nations. For example, if the President of the United States names a United States Senator to a cabinet position, that Senator will need to leave the Senate to take the position.
Commonly, the result of a special election is that the party which held the seat before puts forward another candidate and this candidate wins the election, often by a large margin. However, sometimes rival parties take advantage of a special election to introduce a new candidate or to attempt to regain a seat. Sometimes a race for a seat can become hotly contested, especially if political discord and upset are already present. People may see a special election as an opportunity to comment with their votes on the activities of various political parties in these situations.
In advance of a special election, voters usually receive a voter information guide and a sample ballot so that they can prepare for the election. Regional newspapers often endorse candidates, and there may be opportunities to attend debates and other events such as town hall meetings which allow people to meet the candidates and learn more about their political positions. On election day, balloting may be done in polling places or via absentee ballot, depending on the region. Some communities attempt to save money on special elections by holding absentee balloting.
Special elections are sometimes treated as unimportant because the person who wins the seat will not serve a full term. However, once someone manages to gain a seat in an election, she or he can be difficult to dislodge, and may easily be reelected for an additional term. It is wise to pay attention to special elections and to vote even if it does not seem important.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a America Explained researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.