A majority in which the highest number of votes cast for any one candidate, issue, or item exceeds the second-highest number, but less than 50%.
What is a simple majority?
A simple majority means more than half of the votes or members counted for a decision. If 100 valid votes are included in the denominator, a simple majority is at least 51. The precise denominator can be votes cast, valid votes, members present, or another legally defined total, so the governing rule matters.
How many votes are needed for a simple majority?
A simple majority requires more than 50 percent of the applicable total. With 99 counted votes, 50 is a majority; with 100 counted votes, 51 is required. Abstentions, blank ballots, invalid votes, vacancies, or members not present may or may not affect the denominator depending on the election or legislative rule.
Is a simple majority the same as a plurality?
No. A plurality means receiving more votes than any other option, even if the winner has less than half. A simple majority requires more than 50 percent of the defined total. In a three-candidate race, someone can win a plurality with 40 percent but would not have a simple majority.
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A majority in which the highest number of votes cast for any one candidate, issue, or item exceeds the second-highest number, but less than 50%.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Simple Majority. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/simple-majority
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