Abstract
Theory: Altemative theories of the linkage process between mass policy preferences and public policies are tested empirically. Hypotheses: Opinion-policy linkage may arise because mass preferences drive the policy process, elite preferences drive the process, or because of a shared-preferences, reciprocal influence process. Policy linkage may also be facilitated by higher voter mobilization and party competition. Methods: A multiple-equation model of the opinion-policy process in the United States is tested with two-stage least squares regression. Results: The state policy process is best explained by an opinion-sharing, reciprocal influence model. Shared partisanship, party competition, and voter mobilization enhance the linkage process in theoretically anticipated ways.
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