Where did votes go — methodology

The "where did votes go" analysis estimates flows from one party to another between two consecutive cycles at the multi-mandate region level. This page documents the statistical method behind the estimates.

What this page covers

  • Non-negative least squares (NNLS) Goodman regression at the section level.
  • RAS scaling, which forces the row and column sums of the transition matrix to match observed totals.
  • Why "small parties" and abstainers are included as their own categories.
  • When the method misleads — sections with few voters, demographic change, newly registered voters.

See also Voter persistence, which uses the same method to measure party loyalty.

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