The significance of strategic voting in elections lies in its ability to influence electoral outcomes. Voters might choose to cast ballots for a less preferred candidate who has a higher chance of winning over their most favored candidate, thereby minimizing the risk of a less desirable outcome. This tactic is often employed in plurality voting systems, where split votes can result in an undesired candidate prevailing. Strategic voting can also serve to enhance the viability of third parties, encourage electoral competition, and ultimately shape policy direction based on coalition dynamics among elected representatives.