protest vote

American  

noun

1. a ballot cast for a candidate with a minimal chance of winning, to register dislike for the other candidates.

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Etymology

Origin of protest vote

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

"It's not just a protest vote," she told Sky News Australia as the results came in on Saturday night.

From BBC • Mar. 25, 2026

But his opponent, 43-year-old Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, has framed the election as a protest vote and cannily turned the national flag into a symbol of resistance.

From Barron's • Jan. 11, 2026

But for Alawieh, Tuesday's protest vote is not about the primary or the general election.

From Salon • Feb. 24, 2024

Some have attributed Mr. Kasselakis’ rise to a protest vote by disgruntled Syriza supporters desperate for new blood.

From New York Times • Nov. 10, 2023

With only a few days before voters go the polls, Pemech Estrada was leaning toward casting a null vote, essentially a protest vote.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 24, 2023