A general vote by the electorate on a single political question that has been referred to them for a direct decision is called?

A general vote by the electorate on a single political question that has been referred to them for a direct decision is called a referendum. This process allows citizens to vote directly on specific issues, such as constitutional amendments, laws, or policy measures, providing a means for the electorate to express their collective will.

In a referendum, the question is typically presented as a yes/no choice, and the outcome directly determines the fate of the proposal. This democratic tool empowers voters and enables them to have a say in important legislative matters.

While initiatives involve citizens proposing legislation and gathering signatures to place a measure on the ballot, a referendum specifically refers to the electorate voting on a question that has been proposed by the government or legislature. A plebiscite may also involve voting on a specific issue but is often used in a broader context and does not have the same formal legal standing as a referendum. An election generally refers to the process of voting for candidates to hold office, rather than voting on specific legislative issues.