Abstract
This study examines voter turnout in U.S. presidential elections from 1960-2008. Specifically, this study contributes to the literature by using a panel spatial econometric model to investigate whether, on the margin, voters behave rationally (increased voter turnout) when the probability of their vote being decisive is greater. The empirical results are mixed regarding whether probability matters to voters. Neither the margin of victory in an election, nor voter weight in the election (ratio of electoral votes to number of voters within a state) played a significant role in determining voter turnout. However, when states switch away from a winner-take-all system to a congressional district system of allocating their electoral votes, voter turnout increased.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
