Faculty Sponsor: Robert Kabacoff
Live Poster Session: Zoom Link
Abstract:
The economy has long played a crucial role in determining voter behavior in U.S. elections, as many people consider economic concerns when deciding who to vote for. This study examines the relationship between economic concerns and voting preferences during the 2020 U.S. presidential election, a pivotal moment shaped by the economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Leveraging data from the American National Election Study (ANES), this analysis looks at how perceptions of economic opportunities, financial mobility, and personal financial stability influenced voter behavior across party lines. Key findings suggest that heightened economic concerns correlated with increased support for candidates advocating economic reforms, while economic optimism aligned with Republican preferences. The study also highlights nuanced differences in how economic perceptions influenced political alignment, revealing that despite widespread financial hardship, support for Donald Trump persisted among certain demographics. By providing insights into the interplay between economic attitudes and voting patterns, this research underscores the critical role of economic messaging in shaping political campaigns and policy development during times of economic upheaval. These findings offer valuable implications for political strategists, policymakers, and scholars studying the dynamics of voter behavior.