A candidate-centred, preferential plurality/majority system, similar to the Alternative Vote. If no candidate achieves an absolute majority of first preferences, all candidates except the two leading candidates are eliminated and their votes reallocated according to the second, third and so on preferences expressed. The candidate with the highest number of votes is declared elected.
Understand more election terms clearly
Get one important election term explained each week, with authoritative sources, practical context and related definitions.
A candidate-centred, preferential plurality/majority system, similar to the Alternative Vote. If no candidate achieves an absolute majority of first preferences, all candidates except the two leading candidates are eliminated and their votes reallocated according to the second, third and so on preferences expressed. The candidate with the highest number of votes is declared elected.
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Supplementary Vote. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/supplementary-vote
Sources
01
Single-source
Get the weekly election term
Receive one cited, source-backed election explanation in your inbox each week.