Polls and Elections: Under the Radar: Public Support for Vice Presidents

Abstract

Analysis of vice presidential favorability and job approval polling data for the past four vice presidents suggests that there is a mismatch between how scholars and the public perceive the vice presidency. Specifically, data illustrate that vice presidential favorability and job approval ratings are overwhelmingly influenced by presidential favorability and job approval ratings. While vice presidents advise and help their presidents carry out any number of important tasks, most citizens do not seem to form independent opinions about them. The analysis adds to our understanding of the institution and has normative implications, inasmuch as it suggests that there may be a lack of democratic accountability associated with one of the only two nationally elected officials in the United States.