What is a defining characteristic of a 'critical election'?

A defining characteristic of a 'critical election' is that it causes a realignment of party coalitions. In the context of political science, critical elections are pivotal moments that signify a significant shift in the electoral landscape. During these elections, there may be substantial changes in the support base for political parties, often resulting in the development of new party systems or a substantial reconfiguration of existing coalitions.

Critical elections often reflect major changes in public opinion, priorities, or key issues that resonate with the electorate. As these shifts occur, voters may realign with different parties, leading to long-term changes in how parties build alliances and what platforms they advocate. For instance, a critical election can solidify the dominance of a particular party or ideology while marginalizing previously strong parties, thereby reshaping the political landscape for future elections. This concept underscores the transformative nature of critical elections, distinguishing them from other types of elections that may not lead to significant changes in party dynamics or voter alignment.