University of Kentucky
Effect of Salient SCOTUS Case Decisions on Voter Turnout
Abstract
The Supreme Court is a powerful institution with remarkable influence over American governance, yet little research has investigated its impact on electoral behavior. This study seeks to address this gap by examining the relationship between the release of salient SCOTUS decisions and voter turnout. Utilizing 2012 data on the landmark healthcare ruling National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius (2012) from the American Panel Survey (TAPS), I employ a logistic regression model to assess the correlation between the release of a salient SCOTUS decision and an individual’s intent to vote and actual voter turnout. I examine whether salient SCOTUS cases positively influence American voters’ intent to participate in upcoming elections, and whether the release of these decisions effectively drive American voters to the polls. Through this analysis, I reveal important implications for the social influence wielded by the Supreme Court and the numerous facets of civic engagement within the American electoral process.
Effect of Salient SCOTUS Case Decisions on Voter Turnout
The Supreme Court is a powerful institution with remarkable influence over American governance, yet little research has investigated its impact on electoral behavior. This study seeks to address this gap by examining the relationship between the release of salient SCOTUS decisions and voter turnout. Utilizing 2012 data on the landmark healthcare ruling National Federation of Independent Business v. Sebelius (2012) from the American Panel Survey (TAPS), I employ a logistic regression model to assess the correlation between the release of a salient SCOTUS decision and an individual’s intent to vote and actual voter turnout. I examine whether salient SCOTUS cases positively influence American voters’ intent to participate in upcoming elections, and whether the release of these decisions effectively drive American voters to the polls. Through this analysis, I reveal important implications for the social influence wielded by the Supreme Court and the numerous facets of civic engagement within the American electoral process.