Populism is a political approach that seeks to represent the interests and concerns of the ordinary people against the established elite or system. It often emphasizes a dichotomy between "the people" and "the elite," portraying the latter as out of touch or corrupt. Populist movements can emerge across the political spectrum and are characterized by charismatic leaders who deploy emotional appeals to rally support. While populism can mobilize disenfranchised groups, it may also foster polarization and complicate governance by oversimplifying complex issues.