What is coalition drift?

Coalition drift, also referred to as partisan drift, refers to a shift in the political positions/ideologies and policies of a political coalition over an extended period of time. This can occur due to several factors, including changes in leadership, shifts in voter preferences, and the influence of interest groups and other external factors.

Coalition drift can lead to a weakening of the coalition, as its members may start to feel that their interests are no longer represented adequately. This may result in members leaving the coalition or even forming new coalitions with like-minded individuals or groups.

Coalition drift can be observed in various contexts, including political systems with multiple parties, interest groups, and social movements united around a common cause. It is a natural process in democratic societies with evolving economic, social, and political dynamics.