crossendorsement

Crossendorsement is the practice in political systems of endorsing a candidate or public official by more than one political party or organization. In many contexts, a crossendorsed candidate may appear on the ballot under multiple party lines, a feature often associated with fusion voting. The arrangement is typically used to pool support from diverse constituencies around a common candidate.

Crossendorsement typically arises when parties or interest groups coordinate nominations and endorsements, sometimes forming electoral coalitions or leveraging reputational ties. It can help a candidate reach voters who identify with different traditions or issue priorities. It can also involve labor unions, advocacy groups, professional associations, or other organizations that want to align with a candidate who shares their goals.

Benefits include a broader base of support, reduced risk of vote splitting, and increased legitimacy for the endorsed candidate. Critics warn that it can blur party identities, dilute voter choice, and enable outside influence in elections or governance. In some cases, minor parties or independent groups may be marginalized if their distinct platforms are subsumed by a broader endorsement.

Legal and practical status varies by country and jurisdiction. Fusion voting or official crossendorsement mechanisms exist in a limited number of places, while others prohibit multi-party ballot lines or endorsements on the same ticket. Researchers study crossendorsement as a strategic tool for coalition-building and as a factor shaping voter information and ballot access.