Electoral systems shape political accountability by determining how votes translate into representation. Systems such as first-past-the-post, proportional representation, and ranked-choice voting influence party dynamics and encourage various accountability mechanisms. For example, proportional representation can lead to multi-party systems, promoting diverse viewpoints. In contrast, winner-takes-all systems may reinforce a two-party structure, affecting how politicians engage with their constituents. Ultimately, the electoral system heavily influences the responsiveness of elected officials to their electorate.