Retrospective voting involves citizens evaluating an incumbent’s past performance when deciding how to cast their ballot in an election. Voters essentially look back at the recent track record of the government or a specific political figure and make a judgment based on that history. For example, if the economy has improved significantly during an incumbent’s term, voters may be more likely to re-elect them, while economic downturns could lead to their defeat.
This type of electoral behavior is significant because it holds elected officials accountable for their actions while in office. It provides an incentive for governments to prioritize policies that will benefit the electorate in the short and medium term. Historically, periods of perceived governmental success often translate into electoral victories, demonstrating the influence of this behavior. It offers a relatively straightforward method for citizens to assess political efficacy without necessarily requiring deep dives into complex policy details.
