Determinants of regional development and their impact on electoral processes

Regional development, a process with multiple economic, social and environmental facets, is determined by a complex interaction of factors that shape its trajectory. Development models are intrinsically linked to local history, the strategic use of existing resources, the cultivation of economic opportunities and the enhancement of human capital, and their application often generates contradictory results. The determinants of regional development vary in type, some of which are considered essential in economic, social and territorial cohesion policy due to the extent to which they can influence social values and collective aspirations. A wealth of specialist literature also highlights their influence on electoral processes, party strategies and election results. In this context, the study aims to identify the main categories of factors determining the development process in a region and how they shape the preferences of voters in four counties belonging to the North-West Development Region (Bihor, Sălaj, Satu Mare, and Maramureș). The analysis focuses on the second round of the presidential elections in Romania and aims to highlight the behavior of those who voted on 18 May 2025, compared to that defined by Dumitru Sandu in 2014.