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Issue Publics, Mass Publics, and Agenda Setting: Environmentalism and Economics in Presidential Elections

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  • Mark J Wattier

    (Department of Political Science, Criminal Justice and Legal Studies, Murray State University, Murray, KY 42071, USA)

  • Raymond Tatalovich

    (Department of Political Science, Loyola University Chicago, Lake Shore Campus—Damen Hall 914, 6525 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60626, USA)

Abstract

In this study we assess whether the two major political parties and their presidential candidates played any role in mobilizing public support for environmentalism, as compared with economic issues. Our empirical analysis is based on (1) content analysis of the party platforms, (2) content analysis of campaign rhetoric, and (3) identification of ‘attentive’ publics in the electorate. Over the period 1972–92 no fewer than 12% of respondents mentioned economics but no more than 3.9% mentioned purely environmental concerns. We conclude that the environmental policy agenda did not originate from two-party electoral competition.

Suggested Citation

  • Mark J Wattier & Raymond Tatalovich, 2000. "Issue Publics, Mass Publics, and Agenda Setting: Environmentalism and Economics in Presidential Elections," Environment and Planning C, , vol. 18(1), pages 115-126, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envirc:v:18:y:2000:i:1:p:115-126
    DOI: 10.1068/c9c
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Budge, Ian & Hofferbert, Richard I., 1990. "Mandates and Policy Outputs: U.S. Party Platforms and Federal Expenditures," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 84(1), pages 111-131, March.
    2. Kernell, Samuel, 1978. "Explaining Presidential Popularity: How Ad Hoc Theorizing, Misplaced Emphasis, and Insufficient Care in Measuring One's Variables Refuted Common Sense and Led Conventional Wisdom Down the Path of Anom," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 72(2), pages 506-522, June.
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