Which term describes a major national election that signals a change in political power?

The term "critical election" refers to a significant national election that results in a fundamental shift in the political landscape and often leads to a realignment of party systems. These elections typically showcase dramatic changes in voter allegiance, where large segments of the electorate switch their support between parties, often resulting in new policies and reshaped political priorities.

Critical elections are characterized by transitory political trends and can set the stage for a new party era, as they may herald the end of dominant political coalitions and lead to the rise of new ones. They often occur in response to significant events, societal changes, or widespread discontent with the status quo, reflecting the electorate's desire for change.

In contrast, terms like "party era" refer to longer periods of stability dominated by a particular party's leadership, while "party coalition" describes a temporary alliance between different parties to achieve specific political objectives. "Era of divided government" refers to a situation where different branches of government are controlled by different political parties, which can influence but does not necessarily signify a major shift in political power like a critical election does.