Electoral laws affect party competition by defining the rules under which elections are conducted, influencing the ability of parties to participate and succeed. Laws pertaining to ballot access, campaign financing, and proportional representation can either encourage or limit competition. For instance, stringent ballot access laws may favor established parties while hindering newcomers. Alternatively, proportional representation systems can promote a diverse set of political parties. Overall, electoral laws shape the political landscape, impacting voter choice and the dynamics of party competition in elections.