In the United States, what do they call by-election?

Analyze the question: A by-election is an election held to fill a seat that has become vacant between general elections. This can happen because of death, resignation, or disqualification of the office holder. The question asks what the United States calls it.

Explain the concept: Different countries use different names for the same idea:

• Nigeria, UK, India: by-election
• United States: special election

In the US, when a seat in Congress, a state legislature, or another office becomes vacant, a special election is held to fill it. It happens outside the regular election cycle.

Evaluate the options:

• A. Special election: This is the American term for a by-election, so it fits.
• B. By polls: This is not a standard term in US politics. "By-poll" is used in some Commonwealth countries, such as India, as a variant of "by-election".
• C. General election: This is the regular, scheduled election for all or most seats. It is not held to fill a single vacancy.
• D. Recall: This is a process in which voters remove an elected official before the term ends. It can lead to a special election, but it is not the same as a by-election.

Answer: A. A by-election in the United States is called a special election.

Exam tip: Link the term to the country: UK/Nigeria = by-election, USA = special election. Also remember that a recall removes an official, while a special election fills the vacant seat.