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Political Competition and Strategic Voting in Multi-Candidate Elections

Author

Listed:
  • Bernhardt, Dan

    (Department of Economics, University of Illinois and Department of Economics, University of Warwick,)

  • Krasa, Stefan

    (Department of Economics, University of Illinois)

  • Squintani, Francesco

    (Department of Economics, University of Warwick)

Abstract

We develop a model of strategic voting in a spatial setting with multiple candidates when voters have both expressive and instrumental concerns. The model endogenizes the strategic coordination of voters, yet is flexible enough to allow the analysis of political platform competition by policy-motivated candidates. We characterize all strategic voting equilibria in a three-candidate setting. Highlighting the utility of our approach, we analyze a setting with two mainstream and a spoiler candidate, showing that the spoiler can gain from entering, even though she has no chance of winning the election and reduces the winning probability of her preferred mainstream candidate.

Suggested Citation

  • Bernhardt, Dan & Krasa, Stefan & Squintani, Francesco, 2024. "Political Competition and Strategic Voting in Multi-Candidate Elections," QAPEC Discussion Papers 21, Quantitative and Analytical Political Economy Research Centre.
    • Handle: RePEc:wrk:wqapec:21
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    References listed on IDEAS

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