Legal Definitions - simple majority

A simple majority refers to a decision-making standard where a proposal, candidate, or motion is approved if it receives more than half of the votes cast by those present and voting. It is the most common type of majority used in various settings, from legislative bodies to private organizations, and does not require a higher threshold like a two-thirds majority or a majority of all potential members.

• Example 1: City Council Budget Approval

  Imagine a city council composed of nine members. During a meeting, they are voting on the annual city budget. All nine members are present. Five council members vote "yes" to approve the budget, three vote "no," and one abstains. For the budget to pass, it needs a simple majority.

  Explanation: In this scenario, five "yes" votes constitute more than half of the nine members present and voting (5 is greater than 4.5). Therefore, the city budget is approved by a simple majority.

• Example 2: Homeowners' Association Board Election

  At an annual meeting for a homeowners' association, members are electing a new board member. There are 100 eligible voters in the association, but only 40 members attend the meeting and cast their ballots. Candidate A receives 22 votes, Candidate B receives 15 votes, and Candidate C receives 3 votes.

  Explanation: To win the election by a simple majority, a candidate must receive more than half of the votes cast by those present (40 votes cast / 2 = 20; so, more than 20 votes). Candidate A received 22 votes, which is more than half of the 40 votes cast, thus securing the position by a simple majority.

• Example 3: University Departmental Meeting

  A university department has 15 faculty members. During a meeting, they are deciding whether to adopt a new textbook for an introductory course. Twelve faculty members are present for the vote. Seven vote "yes" to adopt the new textbook, and five vote "no."

  Explanation: A simple majority requires more than half of the votes cast by those present and voting (12 members present, so 12/2 = 6; more than 6 votes). The seven "yes" votes meet this requirement, meaning the new textbook is approved by a simple majority.