Downsian Model of Voting

The Downsian Model of Voting suggests that voters and candidates are motivated by self-interest, mainly focusing on policy positions that maximize their benefits. Candidates position themselves ideologically to appeal to the median voter—who holds the middle ground politically—because winning requires the support of the majority. Voters choose the candidate whose policies best align with their preferences. Over time, parties tend to move toward the center to capture this median voter, leading to moderate policies in a two-party system. This model explains how political competition often results in convergence toward centrist positions to secure electoral victory.