Introduction\n\nDoes the sheer physical burden of transporting ballots across vast, mountainous regions distort political representation? This study investigates how logistical challenges faced by candidates influence their territorial influence. \n\nThe paper explores whether party machines gain an advantage through ballot accessibility or if candidates strategically focus on easier-to-access areas during campaigning periods in Colombia's challenging terrain.​​ While intuitive, the relationship between access to ballots and political power remains unclear. This research examines this phenomenon using data from nationwide elections across multiple Colombian departments collected over a five-year period (2018-2022). The analysis employs quantitative methods including statistical modeling techniques and regression discontinuity designs.​​ \n\nKey Findings\n\nThe study finds that the physical burden of ballot delivery does impact territorial influence, though not as dramatically as some might expect. Candidates in remote areas often receive fewer votes precisely because they cannot mount the same intensive campaigns enjoyed by candidates in accessible lowland regions.​₹ \nContrary to expectations, party machines do not significantly increase their vote share by simply increasing ballot access points across the electoral map. Instead, this advantage appears concentrated among established parties with existing infrastructure networks.​​ \n

Implications for Research and Policy\n\nThe findings suggest that while logistical constraints create a subtle but significant disadvantage in remote regions, they don't fundamentally alter the outcomes of Colombia's electoral system. This nuance helps refine theories about party competition.​₹ \nThe research provides practical insights regarding resource allocation by political parties seeking to maximize territorial influence across different campaign periods and geographical contexts within Colombia.​​