Political Dictionary
A swing state is a state where major parties have a realistic chance of winning a closely contested election.
Definition
A swing state, often called a battleground state, is a state whose voters are relatively competitive between major parties in a particular election. Swing-state status can change over time because of demographic trends, candidate appeal, turnout, economic conditions, and political realignment.
Why It Matters
Because most states award presidential electoral votes on a winner-take-all basis, campaigns concentrate advertising, visits, staff, and turnout efforts in competitive states. Swing states can therefore decide the Electoral College outcome.
How It Works
Analysts identify swing states using past results, polling, voter registration, demographic data, fundraising, and campaign activity. A state may be competitive in one election but safely favor one party in another.
History
Different states have served as battlegrounds in different eras. Industrialization, migration, suburban growth, regional realignment, and changing party coalitions have repeatedly altered the electoral map.
Example
A state decided by less than one percentage point may receive far more campaign attention than a state where one party routinely wins by twenty points.
Common Misconceptions
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