A "swing state" is a term used to describe a state where both major political parties have similar levels of support among voters, making it a competitive battleground in elections. Swing states are crucial because they can decisively influence the outcome of presidential elections, often determining the allocation of electoral votes. Candidates typically focus on swing states during campaigns, tailoring their messages to appeal to a diverse electorate. Because of their unpredictable nature in voting patterns, swing states receive significant attention from campaign resources and strategies.