battleground state; swing state
Used in US political contexts to refer to states where the election outcome is uncertain and both parties compete heavily. Often contrasted with 激戦州 (also meaning battleground state).
See also: 激戦州
大統領選では、接戦州の結果が勝敗を決めることが多い。
In presidential elections, the results in battleground states often decide the outcome.
両候補は接戦州
Both candidates are focusing on expanding support in swing states.
Compound of 接戦 (close contest) and 州 (state), modeled after English 'battleground state' or 'swing state'.