A swing state is a state in American politics that could reasonably be won by either the Democratic or Republican candidate in a statewide election, most often referring to presidential elections. These states are also known as battleground states, toss-up states, or purple states. Swing states have generally changed over time, and determining states likely to be swing states in future elections requires estimation and projection based on previous election results, opinion polling, political trends, recent developments since the previous election, and any strengths or weaknesses of the particular candidate involved.
Swing states are important because they are closely divided politically and have swung back and forth between Democratic and Republican candidates in recent years. Candidates will target these states with campaign visits, advertising, and staffing. The winner of these states can have a significant impact on the outcome of the presidential election, which requires 270 electoral votes. The number of electors each state gets is based on population, and Florida, with its large population, will determine 29 electoral votes.
Some examples of swing states in recent years include Arizona, Florida, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These states have small vote margins, and different political parties win over time. Political realignment from presidential election to presidential election can be one way to identify swing states.
