Influence of Polarization and Economic Opinion on Voting and Trust in Government

• In Event: Economic Considerations and the Vote

Abstract

This study empirically examines the various determinants of voter behavior and trust in government institutions in the United States, focusing on the relationship between political polarization, economic perceptions, and demographic factors. Utilizing regression models with data from the 2020 American National Election Studies, it finds that economic perceptions significantly influence both voting behavior and trust in government, overshadowing the direct impact of political polarization. Demographic characteristics, such as age, gender, and race, also emerge as influential, reflecting the diverse nature of the American electorate. Notably, the study underscores the role of media consumption in shaping political attitudes, given the presence of economic factors. These findings highlight the deeper interdependencies between economic conditions, party identification, and sociodemographic diversity in shaping political engagement and trust, offering insights for policymakers and political strategists aiming to navigate the landscape of American politics.

Author

• Jude Chukwuebuka Ugwuoke, Auburn University