Premium
When, Where, and How We Vote: Does it Matter?
Author(s) -
Stein Robert M.,
Vonnahme Greg
Publication year - 2012
Publication title -
social science quarterly
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.482
H-Index - 90
eISSN - 1540-6237
pISSN - 0038-4941
DOI - 10.1111/j.1540-6237.2012.00863.x
Subject(s) - polling , precinct , voting , ideal (ethics) , presidential system , quality (philosophy) , ranked voting system , political science , computer science , law , politics , philosophy , epistemology , operating system
Objectives In this article, we explore the different ways A mericans exercise their right to vote on E lection D ay and how these alternatives shape the voter's experience. Methods Our study draws on data collected from exit polls with E lection D ay voters in the 2008 C olorado presidential election. C olorado is unique among the 50 states in that it affords it voters the widest array of voting options, both before and on E lection D ay, and thus provides an ideal setting for testing our hypotheses. Results We find voting places that are more accessible and open (i.e., voters can vote at more than one location on E lection D ay) significantly enhance voter performance and evaluation. In several instances, this finding is attenuated for infrequent voters. Conclusions There are valuable lessons regarding the centralization and location of polling places that could be applied to precinct voting models. Counties might concentrate more attention on adequately equipping polling locations, particularly having a sufficient number of quality poll workers to assist voters with check‐in and the voting system.