Focus on Elections
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Focus on Elections

As the 2020 U.S. presidential race enters its final phase, voters are contemplating the broader political landscape and examining their stances on key issues.

Here is a collection of faculty research and insights related to popular election topics, such as candidate endorsements, political advertising, forming political opinions, and more.

Election rules affect outcome
Politics & Elections

Take 5: Election Rules and Campaign Tactics That Sway Voters

A look at whether celebrity endorsements matter, why the top spot on a ballot is coveted, and more election research from Kellogg faculty.

New evidence examines how desegregation in Louisville shifted white voters' political views in the long term.
Policy

How Did School Desegregation Shape the Political Ideology of White Students Later in Life?

A new study suggests that, more than four decades later, the impact of these policies on political leanings is apparent.

Organizations

Why Are Social Media Platforms Still So Bad at Combating Misinformation?

Facebook, Twitter, and users themselves have few incentives to distinguish fact from fiction.

Election rules affect outcome
Politics & Elections

Why Certain Types of Elections Favor Extreme Candidates

Winners can differ when voting is done by district versus at-large.

Negative economic news can lead voters to perceive women as less capable candidates.
Politics & Elections

Are Voters Biased Against Female Politicians?

In many cases, no. But economic anxiety can ignite powerful gender stereotypes.

Lawmakers discuss legislation in the Capitol building as lightning and dark clouds gather outside.
Politics & Elections

Politicians Vote Differently When Journalists Aren’t Watching

During natural disasters, the media spotlight shifts—and special interests benefit.

A candidate speaks into a microphone at a political event.
Politics & Elections

Podcast: Does What Candidates Say Matter?

Understanding political rhetoric in this heated presidential race.

Donald Trump speaks to a crowd.
Politics & Elections

When People Think Their Neighbors Support Trump, They’re More Likely to Express Anti-immigrant Views

Social norms are powerful—but fluid. A study of the 2016 election shows how they can change.

Done correctly, experience marketing efforts can be used as a form of measurement for consumer engagement.
Politics & Elections

The Oprah Effect

Celebrity endorsement of political candidates can make a difference at the polls.

If the Electoral College was abolished, voters would see different political ads
Politics & Elections

Abandoning the Electoral College Would Remake Campaign Spending

A direct-vote system could have a sizeable impact on the behaviors of voters and candidates.

Political ads on TV attempt to influence a viewer.
Politics & Elections

To Rally Your Base, Buy Air Time

How political advertising is a zero-sum game.

Is democracy the best form of government?
Policy

Which Form of Government Is Best?

Democracies may not outlast dictatorships, but they adapt better.

Hand places vote in box
Politics & Elections

First Among Equals?

Prime ballot position improves a candidate’s chances of winning office.

Political ads on TV attempt to influence a viewer.
Policy

Engineered Electioneering

The “when” and “what” of candidates’ messages.