A periodic process whereby voters are asked whether an incumbent (usually a judge) should remain in office for another term. The office holder, who does not face an opponent, is removed from the position if a percentage of voters indicate that they should not remain in office.
What is retention vote?
The term Retention Vote refers to an election in which voters decide whether an incumbent officeholder, commonly a judge in certain systems, should remain in office for another term. It gives election, security, legal, or technical readers a specific label for the concept rather than a broader everyday meaning.
How does retention vote work?
In election administration, Retention Vote is applied according to its defined purpose: an election in which voters decide whether an incumbent officeholder, commonly a judge in certain systems, should remain in office for another term. Officials then use the relevant eligibility, filing, ballot, timing, notice, or procedural rules for that election.
When is retention vote used in an election?
The term Retention Vote is used when the relevant election, security, or administrative process calls for an election in which voters decide whether an incumbent officeholder, commonly a judge in certain systems, should remain in office for another term. The exact trigger, timing, and responsible official are set by the governing procedure or standard.
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A periodic process whereby voters are asked whether an incumbent (usually a judge) should remain in office for another term. The office holder, who does not face an opponent, is removed from the position if a percentage of voters indicate that they should not remain in office.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Retention Vote. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 20, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/retention-vote
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