Legal Definitions - at-large election

An at-large election is a type of election where a public official is chosen from a larger election district instead of a smaller subdivision within that district. This means that voters from the entire district can vote for the same candidate, rather than just those in a specific area.

For example, in a city council election, candidates may be elected at-large, meaning that all voters in the city can vote for any candidate, rather than just those in a specific ward or district.

This type of election can be beneficial for promoting diversity and representation, as candidates may be more likely to appeal to a wider range of voters. However, it can also make it more difficult for candidates from minority groups or less populated areas to be elected.