What is a common characteristic of elections structured by plurality rule in single-member districts?

Elections structured by plurality rule in single-member districts tend to favor established major parties primarily due to the nature of how votes are counted and seats are awarded. In such systems, the candidate with the most votes wins, regardless of whether that candidate achieves a majority of the votes. This means that if there are multiple candidates, votes can be split among them, allowing a major party candidate to win with a smaller proportion of the overall votes. This system can disadvantage smaller parties or independents, as they struggle to gain traction and may fall victim to the phenomenon known as “wasted votes.” Voters often perceive that voting for a minor party candidate is less likely to result in a win, leading them to support major parties instead, which reinforces their dominance in the electoral landscape. This feedback loop helps sustain a two-party system, making it challenging for new or smaller parties to gain representation.