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Follow the Leader: Theory and Evidence on Political Participation*

* This paper has been replicated

Author

Listed:
  • Barry Nalebuff
  • Ron Shachar

Abstract

Using state-by-state voting data for U.S. presidential elections, the authors observe that voter turnout is a positive function of predicted closeness. To explain the strategic component of political participation, they develop a follow-the-leader model. Political leaders expend effort according to their chance of being pivotal, which depends on the expected closeness of the race (at both state and national levels) and how voters respond to their effort. Structural estimation supports this model. For example, a 1 percent increase in the predicted closeness at the state level stimulates leaders' efforts, which increases turnout by 0.34 percent.

Suggested Citation

  • Barry Nalebuff & Ron Shachar, 1999. "Follow the Leader: Theory and Evidence on Political Participation," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 89(3), pages 525-547, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:aecrev:v:89:y:1999:i:3:p:525-547
    Note: DOI: 10.1257/aer.89.3.525
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    File URL: http://www.aeaweb.org/articles.php?doi=10.1257/aer.89.3.525
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    Replication

    This item has been replicated by:
  • B. D. McCullough & H. D. Vinod, 2004. "Verifying the Solution from a Nonlinear Solver: A Case Study: Reply," American Economic Review, American Economic Association, vol. 94(1), pages 391-396, March.

    • More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior

    Lists

    This item is featured on the following reading lists, Wikipedia, or ReplicationWiki pages:
    1. Follow the Leader: Theory and Evidence on Political Participation (AER 1999) in ReplicationWiki

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