π¨ New Paper with Yoshikuni Ono, conditionally accepted at Political Behavior π
Why are elected officials often much older than voters? We use age manipulation software to uncover voters' age biases. Surprise: Voters (even older ones) like young candidates!
www.charlesmcclean.com/s/How-Do-Vot...
But why do voters often prefer young candidates? π€
While young candidates are typically seen as less experienced, voters also believe they'll focus on different policy issues for a longer periodβfrom education & childcare to climate change, anti-corruption, & multiculturalism.
Our research in Japan suggests voter biases are not to blame for youth underrepresentation. If institutional barriers are reduced and young people are encouraged to run, voters may welcome their greater presence in public office. ποΈ
Additionally, we find that young voters especially like young candidates, suggesting that greater youth turnout can boost youth representation. π³οΈ
What implications do these findings have for democracy? As nations grapple with long-term challenges like aging populations and climate change, the role of young politicians may increasingly come into focus.
Read the full paper for the details! π
