Incumbent governments face major electoral losses in global voter backlash

In 2024, many incumbent governments worldwide faced significant voter backlash, leading to major electoral losses. This trend, noted in over 70 countries, reflects widespread dissatisfaction with political leaders amid ongoing economic struggles post-COVID-19. In Western democracies, incumbents were ousted in 40 of 54 elections since the pandemic began. Notable results include the UK’s Conservative Party suffering its worst defeat since 1832 and significant losses for ruling parties in France and Germany. While some countries like Mexico bucked the trend with stable leadership, others, including South Africa, saw long-standing parties lose power. Analysts suggest that economic distress and a general discontent with political elites are driving this wave of anti-incumbent sentiment.