The "electoral system" refers to the method used to conduct elections and translate votes into political representation. It encompasses various mechanisms for electing representatives, such as first-past-the-post, proportional representation, and ranked-choice voting. Each system affects the political landscape differently, influencing party dynamics, voter engagement, and the overall fairness of election outcomes. Electoral systems shape how power is distributed in a democracy, determining the level of representation for diverse groups and influencing governance practices.