Which political phenomenon is characterized by candidates aligning their views with poll results?

The phenomenon of candidates aligning their views with poll results is known as waffling. This behavior occurs when political candidates shift their positions or adapt their messaging based on what they perceive to be popular or favorable with the electorate, as indicated by polling data. The practice reflects a strategic approach to gain support and often serves the goal of appealing to a broad audience by adopting positions that resonate with current public opinion.

Waffling can be viewed as a tactic to minimize risk and enhance electoral prospects. It highlights the responsiveness of candidates to the sentiments of voters, illustrating how polling can influence political discourse. This approach can lead to perceptions of insincerity, as candidates may not hold strong personal convictions but instead prioritize their chances of winning by adopting popular stances.

In contrast, the other terms represent different political behaviors or relationships. Voter apathy refers to a general disinterest in politics and elections, which does not involve alignment with polling. Bipartisanship denotes cooperation between political parties, focusing on finding common ground rather than shifting views. Partisan politics typically indicates a strong allegiance to a particular political party, often entailing consistent ideological positions rather than adapting to polls.