The Rise of the Populist Radical Right in Europe: Party Strategies of Vote Maximization when out of Government

Abstract

Populist radical right parties (PRRPs), like all parties, desire to be successful. Success may look different across time and depends upon the goals of the party and what it is they are trying to achieve. Luther points to three goals pursued by parties: votes, office, and policy (2011, 454). He states they are seldom pursued alone but that parties “typically seek to juggle these often-conflicting goals” (Luther 2011, 454). The prioritization of these party goals may change over time and are a reflection of the party leadership’s judgment on what will best serve the party as a strategy for success. It is argued that when out of government, PRRPs pursue a strategy of vote maximization through greater radicalization of ideology enabling them to position themselves closer to their voters on key issues.