Imagine receiving an extra $2,500 after filing your taxes. Who would you thank – the president, Congress, or maybe even H&R Block? In the realm of democracy, the ability of voters to reward or punish policymakers based on their policies is a crucial issue. Research in this area has been mixed, leaving doubts about the existence of feedback loops necessary for good policy and a healthy democracy. This episode of Good on Paper challenges this pessimism by examining how voters respond to policy.
Interpreting signals from voters can be complex, especially depending on the salient issues during elections. Political scientist Hunter Rendleman’s research shows that when states implement Earned Income Tax Credit programs to benefit working-class Americans, voters tend to reward governors who implement this policy with higher vote shares and approval ratings.
Rendleman’s optimism on voters’ sophistication is evident in her belief that voters can understand what’s happening to them and respond accordingly. Political scientists are sometimes overly pessimistic about individuals’ capacity to comprehend complex political processes. The key lies in setting up analyses that help voters make informed decisions.
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The Value of Policies: When states adopt the EITC, how does it impact governors’ vote share?
- In counties with a newly implemented EITC, there is a two-percentage-point increase in favor of the incumbent governor.
- The effects are most pronounced in the first year after implementation, particularly in counties with higher claimants of the federal EITC.
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Understanding Voter Behavior: How do voters respond to the EITC, and what factors influence their support for policymakers?
- The EITC notification laws play a role in increasing approval levels for incumbent governors.
- Ineligible individuals in high-exposure counties show similar approval boosts despite not benefiting directly from the EITC.
- Voter Sophistication: Are voters politically sophisticated in responding to policies?
- Voters display sophistication in recognizing and rewarding policymakers for beneficial policies like the EITC.
- The nuanced understanding of how voters react to policies challenges conventional notions of voter behavior.
In essence, this show highlights the complex relationship between policymakers and voters, emphasizing how policies like the EITC can influence election outcomes and public perception. It underscores the need for informed decision-making and strategic policy implementation to foster a healthy democracy. As we navigate the intricacies of governance, let’s remember that voter sophistication plays a pivotal role in shaping political landscapes.
