Text Alone Can Bridge the Gap Between Spatial Voting Theory and Policy Positions

This study validates a novel experimental design linking spatial voting theory with text-based policy position measurement.

The approach leverages established text-scaling techniques to communicate candidates' numerical positions through verbal statements, enabling research into voter choice within purely text-based contexts. Validation via an online survey experiment confirms the prevalence of proximity considerations even without explicit spatial information.

Experimental Design

• Merges traditional voting experiments with text analysis methods
• Applies established text-scaling techniques to verbal policy statements
• Codifies candidates' numerical positions through language alone

Voter Behavior Insights

• Proximity effects remain significant in text-based framing scenarios
• Evidence challenges the notion that spatial factors require visual components

Theoretical & Practical Implications

• Bridges conceptual divides between voting theory and position measurement
• Offers a versatile methodology for future experimental research designs
• Paves pathways for understanding issue framing's direct influence on voting